NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- Channel 4 News has learned that Metro government recently made changes to its tornado siren system. The new policy made its debut last week.

Video: Metro Institutes New Policy Regarding Tornado Sirens

When bad weather strikes, residents will hear the tone more often. Sirens are sounded for three minutes after a tornado warning is issued.

However, under the new system, the sirens will sound again every eight minutes as long as the warning is in place.

While the emergency center did get some calls from frustrated citizens, officials said the new policy is all about safety.

"We think it's worth it because we hope it will help continue to save lives. The siren systems as a whole is proven to help save lives," said Amanda Sluss of the Metro Emergency Management Agency.

The sirens have been around in Davidson County for a decade. The repeated alerts are already in place in Oklahoma and Georgia.

"Somebody that did not hear the first time may hear it the second time," said Sluss.

Nashville has 70 tornado sirens in strategic locations across Davidson County.

Officials said the sirens are only meant to be heard from outdoors.