FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact:
Brad Wilson, Director of Recreation, 630-848-3532
Sameera Luthman, Director of Marketing and Communications, 630-848-3570
Date: June 21, 2010
Naperville Park District Lightning warning system improved for 2010
New Strike Guard system now at Naperbrook, Centennial Beach, Knoch Park, and Nike Park
A new lightning detection system has been installed at several Naperville Park District destinations, including Naperbrook Golf Course, Centennial Beach, Knoch Park, and Nike Sports Complex.
The new Strike Guard system replaces the older Thor Guard systems in these locations. The new system will sound and flash the same type of alarm as the older one; the main difference in the systems is that the Strike Guard system detects both air-to-air and air-to-ground lightning rather than using atmospheric readings to predict when lighting may strike. It is expected that the new systems will eliminate false alarms, which occurred under the older systems.
The Park District reminds residents and park visitors that once the one, long blast of the alarm sounds, together with the flashing strobe light, everyone in the area needs to suspend outdoor activities and take shelter immediately. When no lightning is detected the siren will sound 3 short bursts, indicating that activities can resume.
According to experts in emergency medicine, lightning causes more casualties annually in the United States than any other storm-related phenomenon except floods (http://www.wxline.com/2002_article.pdf). Often lightning strikes before rain begins to fall and may strike after a storm has passed. Therefore, the Park District urges residents to take shelter as soon as the warning sounds and to remain in a protected location until they hear the 3 short bursts from the siren. The flashing strobe on top of the system will remain illuminated when lightning is in the area.
The Naperville Park District has placed lightning warning systems in several of its high use facilities in an effort to increase the safety of park patrons. The systems are intended to provide adequate warning in order for patrons to take shelter; however, they are not fail-proof. In the event that either lightning or thunder is observed and the system siren has not sounded, park patrons should seek shelter immediately.
For more information on the Naperville Park District and its parks, facilities, programs and services, please visit www.napervilleparks.org or call 630-848-5000.