Denver is expanding its use of tornado sirens to include life-threatening events such as dangerous flooding, wildfires and hazardous materials.

Recent local and national disasters, including the Maui wildfire that killed at least 245 people, prompted city officials to review policies on emergency alerts.

Going forward, emergency sirens will be a sign people should take shelter immediately and check their phones, computers and local media for more information on how to stay safe, Denver officials announced today.

Sirens do not send an all clear message, and if they continue to sound, people should continue to follow safety measures, according to the city and county.

“Expanding the usage of our expansive siren system to include an all-hazard approach helps us ensure we will reach as many residents as possible during a life-threatening disaster or emergency,” said Office of Emergency Management Executive Director Matthew Mueller in a statement.

The city and county has 86 sirens, including 75 in the city and 11 at Denver International Airport.

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