CRUSO, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Haywood County officials are moving forward with plans to improve emergency alert coverage in the southern part of the county.

Last week, the first of 18 planned outdoor warning sirens was installed in Cruso, following the placement of poles in August, officials said in a social media post. Once operational, the sirens will serve Cruso, Lake Logan and areas toward Canton and Clyde, alerting residents to flooding and flash flood threats.

County officials stressed that the sirens are meant to supplement, not replace, personal preparedness. Residents are encouraged to maintain emergency plans, stay informed through official channels, and be ready to act when severe weather threatens.

Haywood County residents can sign up for local alerts and review flood safety plans on the ReadyHaywood website, which provides checklists and guidance tailored to the community.

Officials are pursuing additional funding to expand siren coverage to other areas of the county. Updates on siren testing and new installations will be shared through Haywood County Emergency Services on Facebook, Instagram and X.

“Haywood County remains committed to building a safer, more prepared community,” officials said. “Stay connected. Stay informed. Stay ready.”