Lightning is a severe hazard that must be viewed seriously. Park users should seek shelter immediately if lightning threatens them, even if a lightning detection system is not available or if a signal from an existing system has not been sounded.
If you are visiting a park with a lightning detection system, please follow these guidelines:
- If lightning is detected, one long 15-second horn blast will sound from a lightning detection system. Suspend all activities and seek a safe and appropriate shelter, immediately.
- If a lightning detection system strobe is flashing, lightning is in the area. Seek shelter immediately.
- It is safe to resume outdoor activities once three short five-second blasts are made.
This is the "all clear" signal.
If you remain outdoors after a warning is issued or if inclement weather conditions exist,
you do so at your own risk.
Safe Shelters include:
- Enclosed and grounded buildings
- Enclosed cars, SUVs or trucks
- Approved lightning shelter
Avoid these areas:
- The outdoors, including lakes and pools, beaches and boats
- Telephone or electrical devise use
- Open areas
- Water
- Isolated or large trees
- Metal fences
- Elevated ground
- Golf carts
- Mowers
- Rain shelters
- Overhead wires and power lines