Forney Fire Department Adds Automatic Lightning Detection to Community Park

The Forney Fire Department announced this week that it added automatic lightning detection to the outdoor warning siren at Forney Community Park.

The department issued the announcement in a Tuesday social media post. "In addition to citywide severe weather activations, the system can now automatically sound when lightning is detected within 10 miles of the park," the post reads.

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It continues, "This added safety feature will help alert visitors during community events and sporting events. For additional emergency alerts, including weather notifications, sign up for Everbridge to be notified by email, text message, or phone call."

The City of Forney uses the Everbridge community alerts program. Registered users will receive time-sensitive alerts about emergencies and other important community news and events.

As a reminder, lightning is a major cause of storm-related deaths in the United States. According to the National Weather Service, a lightning strike can result in cardiac arrest (your heart stopping) at the time of the injury. That can lead to irreversible brain damage.

On Monday, the department also posted an update to Facebook about the status of Fire Station No. 2, which it says is "taking shape." Crews continue work on the $7.7 million renovation and expansion project, with major upgrades coming together to better support firefighters and the Forney community.

The project includes a new apparatus bay and training stair tower as well as improved bunk areas, a renovated kitchen and day room, expanded parking, and key utility upgrades. "This project is built to support the future of service in Forney," the post states.