We want to take a moment to remind you (or if this is your first Pennsic, inform you) that there are cannons present at Pennsic. They are used to signal the start and end of battles, and can be heard across the expanse of the Pennsic site. They are often used by camp individuals to know when battles are complete, so that meal preparations can be started.
The cannons can be a trigger for individuals with PTSD as well as those with auditory sensitivities. If you or a friend plan to attend Pennsic and might be triggered by the cannons, there are several measures to help:
1) To sign up, visit Accessibility Point at the Town Hall at Pennsic, or use the online form: CAWS Sign-up Form. All information gathered for CAWS is kept confidential.
2) CAWS also needs volunteers to work with the Cannoneers and send the alerts. Volunteers are needed for each battle, a practice on the middle Saturday, during opening ceremonies, and closing ceremonies. Please sign up at Accessibility Point in the Town Hall. Golf cart transportation, to and from the gunnery position, will be provided for you.
3) The thrown weapons area is very close to the cannons, and can therefore present an increased risk to those with PTSD or auditory sensitivity. Please know that the thrown weapons marshals have earplugs available if you need them.
4) The artillery line will also have visual notices. While the cannons are on the line, there will be a red flag hanging on the flagpole on Mt. Eislan, as well as 2 large red flags forward of the red gunners fly. When those items are flying, the cannons are on the line.
The Cannon Advanced Warning System (CAWS) was developed by Baroness Amani, is fully supported by the Cannon crews, and is now being coordinated through accessibility assistance.