Wilton Rolls Out Lightning Detection System For Fields And Parks

WILTON, CT — The Wilton Parks and Recreation Department has installed lightning detection systems at many town parks and athletic fields. The early warning protocols go into effect Friday.

Spaces covered currently include amenities found at Allen’s Meadows, Ambler Farm, Comstock Community Center, Gilbert and Bennett, Lion’s Field, Merwin Meadows, Middlebrook School, Miller Driscoll School, Post Field and the Wilton High School Complex. Residents are advised to note the location of the detection device when beginning their activities.

The status of the lightning detection system for fields with a detection system may be seen online here.

When lightning is detected within 10 miles of a field or Merwin Meadows Park:

• A strobe light will be activated and remain on.
• A horn will blast for 15 seconds.
• A 30-minute countdown clock to resume operations will activate. The countdown clock will automatically reset if additional lightning is detected. Everyone must leave the field/Merwin Meadows Park immediately and take cover. Failing to leave will result in the loss of use in the future, according to town officials.

Residents may return to the area when the strobe light has shut off, and the horn has blasted three times for five seconds each.

Neither the warning nor the system, manufactured by Earth Networks, are intended to guarantee that conditions are safe. If the weather is threatening and no warning signal is heard or seen, residents are advised to use "good judgment" and clear the field immediately.

"Do not wait for the warning signal to activate, as the system can malfunction. No system is infallible, common sense should still be followed," Wilton Parks officials said in a news release Wednesday.