West Windsor Warns Of Loud Booms, Military Training Noise

WEST WINDSOR, NJ — West Windsor residents could hear loud booms and feel vibrations Thursday as scheduled military training takes place at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst.

The West Windsor Police Department issued an advisory Tuesday warning that training activities at the Joint Base could cause increased noise and vibrations that may be heard or felt in the area throughout October.

Thursday is specifically designated as a high-noise training day on the Joint Base MDL October Noise Calendar, police said. Residents may hear loud booms and potentially feel vibrations associated with military training and the use of munitions.

Weather conditions and cloud cover can affect how far the sound travels.The activity may sometimes sound louder or closer than expected, police said.

“This is scheduled military training associated with the Joint Base mission and military readiness,” according to the advisory.

Police are also encouraging residents to take precautions for pets that may be frightened by sudden booms or vibrations.

During high-noise training, residents can keep pets indoors when possible and close windows and doors to reduce outside noise. A television, radio, fan or white noise may also help mask sudden sounds, according to the advisory.

Police recommended giving pets access to a quiet, secure place and making sure collars, identification tags and microchip information are current in case a frightened animal gets loose. Owners can also watch for stress such as pacing, hiding, shaking, panting or whining.

Residents whose pets have significant noise anxiety can speak with a veterinarian in advance about calming strategies, police said.

West Windsor police shared a calendar on Facebook outlining upcoming military training noise.

Questions or concerns about Joint Base training noise can be directed to Joint Base MDL at 609-754-2575.

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