The Campbell County Office of Emergency Management announced system at AJ Jolly Park and AJ Jolly Golf Course will now alert everyone to the threat of lightning in the area.
The system is located at the entry gate at AJ Jolly Park and the campground. This computer system provides a warning when dangerous conditions are detected. The system consists of sensors measuring lightning strikes within a 5- to 20-mile radius. When conditions indicate lightning has occurred, a signal is sent to the outdoor warning siren at the park.
The signal provides a voice warning that allows folks to clear the area and seek shelter. It is recommended that when the warning system is activated, the park grounds should be cleared, and activities should only be resumed once the all-clear signal is given.
When announcements are made, it is recommended that park patrons and staff immediately seek shelter in their vehicles. If such shelter is unavailable, patrons should avoid areas higher than the surrounding landscapes, not use a tree for shelter, and keep away from metal objects such as bicycles, golf carts, umbrellas, metal fencing, etc.
While this system provides warnings after detecting lighting, the emergency management office recommends seeking shelter if inclement weather is present.
The process of the system is as follows:
- The system will announce: âCaution. Lightning has been detected in the area. Prepare to seek shelterâ when lightning is detected within 20 miles of the park.
- The system will announce: âWarning lightning has been detected in the area. Take shelter immediately. Repeat, warning lightning has been detected in the area. Take shelter immediately,â when lightning is detected within 5 miles of the park.
- When no lighting has been detected in the area for 30 minutes, an âall clearâ message will be announced.