Lightening Alarm

Now that we are in a pattern of thunder storms, I wanted to take a minute and review the lightening protection system.  HCC is equipped with the Strike Guard Lightening detection system.

 

Generally speaking, if an individual can see lightning or hear thunder, he or she is already at risk. Louder or more frequent thunder indicates that lightning activity is approaching, thus increasing the risk for lightning injury or death. The “30–30 Rule” is easy to remember and applies to the warning time before the storm and the time that should be waited before resumption of activities. If the time delay between seeing the flash (lightning) and hearing the bang (thunder) is less than 30 seconds, the individual should be in or should be seeking a safer location.

 

Designed for critical applications, Strike Guard monitors cloud and cloud-to-ground lightning and provides contact-closure signaling when lightening is within a 5 mile radius of the Club. Patented optical signal processing and proprietary optical-coincidence technology prevent false alarms.

 

Sirens are located at 6 tee, 14 tee, the swimming pool, practice facility and Clubhouse.  When the sirens go off, it is important to seek safe shelter.  Specifically, the Clubhouse, Hudson House, LEC or other substantial building.  Rain shelters are not a safe place to seek shelter. 

 

Finally, keep in mind that not all storms move onto the property from a distance greater than 5 miles.  Last week, we have a fairly severe thunderstorm pop up right on top of us.  This gives the golfer little time to seek shelter or feel the lightening protection system isn't working properly.  Again, there are storms that form within the 5 mile radius. 

 

Like most things in life, this is only a tool to alert golfers of pending danger.  Coupled with common sense, there is no reason anyone should be at risk.