HP Parks Get Lightning Detection System

The following is from the Park District of Highland Park:

In an effort to protect patrons from the threat of a lightning strike, the Park District of Highland Park has completed installation of ten Strike Guard lightning detection systems at key locations around the district. Strike Guard is a state-of-the-art solar-powered system with a unique and advanced detection technology that tracks actual lightning strikes and will sound when lightning is within a 5-mile radius.

When lightning is detected, the system will sound a 15-second blast that can be heard from 2,400 feet away followed by a continuous strobe light. When this blast is heard or the strobe light is seen, park users and program participants should clear the area and seek immediate shelter. Once the system has detected that dangerous weather has cleared, 3 short blasts will sound signaling to patrons that it is safe to resume outdoor activities.

“Keeping our patrons safe is a top priority for the park district,” said Liza McElroy, Executive Director of the Park District of Highland Park. “Over the past several years, severe storms have become the norm in our area, by having Strike Guard at our outdoor facilities we are giving residents one more line of defense to continue to enjoy the great outdoors and provide them advance warning if a dangerous storm is approaching.”

This District installed Strike Guard sensors at the following locations: Sunset Valley Golf Course (two sensors installed), Hidden Creek AquaPark, Deer Creek/Larry Fink Memorial Park (two sensors installed), West Ridge Park, Park Avenue Boating Facility, Centennial Ice Arena (two sensors installed), Sunset Woods Park, Recreation Center of Highland Park, Olson Park and Heller Nature Center. The system will operate each year between 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. from April – October.