The alerts could be heard by landlocked neighborhoods under a Fire Department proposal to expand the coastal system citywide.

Fire officials believe the system can improve safety at the Westfield Shoppingtown Connecticut Post mall or Interstate 95, where it can signal alerts about hazardous material spills, industrial accidents and other dangerous conditions. Fire Chief Louis LaVecchia said the project will not occur overnight. The city lacks the resources to acquire the $33,000 sirens, leading fire officials to seek public or private grants.

But the chief is confident the expansion will take place, even if it is done piecemeal. "We are trying to build on to the existing system," said LaVecchia, adding that the sirens play a crucial role during evacuations.

The Fire Department has six sirens in neighborhoods along Long Island Sound and one near the Caswell Cove condominiums, in an industrial area.

Emergency officials use the system to play recorded messages that warn of flooding or other safety hazards. The network's loudspeakers can also be used to deliver live messages.

Daniel Worroll Jr., the Fire Department's dispatch supervisor, said the sirens are ideal for emergencies where businesses and homes have to be evacuated quickly.

"We can use them for hazardous material situations," he said. "If there was an industrial accident, we can alert people to get out of the areas."

Mayor James L. Richetelli Jr. said the sirens along the shoreline have helped residents avoid flooding and dense fog.

"It is a tremendous tool," Richetelli said. "We can give people up-to-the-minute information and details. We can give them information during a disaster. It is very helpful."

Greg Shulas, who covers Milford, can be reachedat 878-2130.