Back in December the Campbell County Office of Emergency Management installed a Lightning Detection System at AJ Jolly Park and AJ Jolly Golf Course which alerts everyone at the park to the threat of lightning in the area. Now, William R. Turner, Director of the Office of Emergency Management has announced that they have received a grant that will allow for the placement of a second warning system at Pendery Park by the end of summer.
The current System in place is located at the entry gate at AJ Jolly Park and Campground. This sophisticated computer system provides warning when dangerous conditions are detected. The system consists of sensors that measure lightning strikes in a 5 to 10 mile radius. When conditions indicate that lightning has occurred, a signal is sent to the Outdoor Warning Siren at the park. The signal provides a voice warning that allows one to clear the area and seek shelter. It is recommended that when the warning system is activated the park grounds be cleared and activities and not be resumed until the all-clear signal is given. These are warnings are distinctly different as they are voice announcements. 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 that are higher than the surrounding landscapes, not to use a tree for shelter, and keep away from metal objects such as bicycles, golf carts, umbrellas, and metal fencing, and etc.
While this system provides warnings after lighting has been detected, please do not fail to seek shelter if inclement weather is present. If it is the opinion of the Park staff, teacher, coach, referee, or the general public that the weather situation is not safe, do not wait for emergency warning systems to activate – CLEAR THE AREA! Take shelter in your vehicles anytime lightning is seen, or thunder is heard.
1. The system will announce: “Caution! Lightning has been detected in the area. Prepare to seek shelter” when lighting is detected within twenty (10) miles of the park.
2. The system will announce: “Warning lightning has been detected in the area. Take shelter immediately! Repeat, warning lightning has been detected in the area. Take shelter immediately!” when lighting is detected within five (5) miles of the park.
3. When no lighting has been detected in the area for thirty (30) minutes an “All Clear” message will be announced.
