: Lightning Policy
Lightning Policy
Round Rock Sertoma Girls Softball League (RRSGSL) utilizes a lightning detector (SkyScan) that allows for the implementation of a consistent policy regarding the suspension of games with the approach of lightning. The following procedures have been developed, which consider thunderstorm and lightning statistics and the limitations of our detector. Even though technology and instrumentation have proven to be effective, they cannot guarantee safety. The SkyScan will be used to enhance warning during the initial stages of the storm by detecting lightning in relation to the area of concern.
Criteria for Evacuation
1) On days when a storm is anticipated, the SkyScan will be turned on and monitored by the Board member on duty. When a lightning storm approaches within 8-20 miles, umpires and managers on all fields will be alerted by the Board member on duty and/or single short blast sounded from an air horn.
2) When a lightning storm approaches within 3-8 miles, umpires and managers on all fields will be alerted by either the Board member on duty and/or two (2) long blasts sounded from an air horn. All activity will be immediately suspended for a minimum of thirty (30) minutes. Any subsequent lightning after the beginning of the 30 minute count will reset the clock and another 30minute count shall begin.3) In the event of equipment malfunction the utilization of the Flash to Bang method will be used revealing lightning within 6 miles (a 30 second count between the flash of lightning and the bang of thunder).
Note: Turn the SkyScan unit on in an area removed from other electronic devices or machinery, which could cause a false triggering.
Responsibilities of Mangers/Coaches and Board Member(s)
1) The responsibility for removing players from an approved activity site in a timely manner lies with the manager of the team. If the manager is not present, a coach will assume responsibility. Board members may not be present during scheduled or unscheduled activity times. This includes areas at the complex as well as approved sites away from the complex. Managers and/or coaches may not have access to the SkyScan system therefore; they can use the flash to bang method.2) If the manager and/or coach does not vacate the activity site and/or does not comply with Board member(s) instructions will be subject to disciplinary action under RRGSL supplemental rules 22, Discipline for Mangers and Coaches.
3) The Board member(s) on duty will make sure ALL areas are clear. Board member will continue to monitor SkyScan. In the event of equipment malfunction, the Board member(s) can monitor the weather via a weather radio and/or checking with the National Weather Service for updates.
MANAGERS AND/OR COACHES NEED TO USE GOOD JUDGEMENT TO ENSURE THE SAFETY OF ALL.
Acceptable Safety Areas
1) A safe structure at the complex would be defined as either inside the restrooms, concession area, and umpire dressing room. The exterior of the complex and the pavilion area are not safe areas and these areas should be cleared. Everyone who is not inside one of these areas shall be sent to their vehicle. A vehicle is considered safe if it is fully enclosed with a hard metal roof, rubber tires, and completely closed windows. Persons should not touch the sides of the vehicle! Convertible and “softtop” vehicles, and golf carts do no provide a high level of protection and cannot be considered safe from lightning.
2) If unable to reach safe shelter, persons should stay away from the tallest trees or objects (i.e. light poles, flag poles, etc.), metal objects (i.e. fences, bleachers, etc.), individual trees, standing pools of water, and open fields. Persons should avoid being the highest object in an open field.
Criteria for Safe Return to Game/Practice Areas and Complex
1) Activity may be resumed once the storm has passed and moved to at least 8-20 miles from the complex. It should be clear that the storm is moving away from the complex and has moved beyond the 3-8 mile radius for at least 15 minutes. The decision to resume activity will be made by the Board member on duty, in consultation with the umpires.
2) If inclement weather affects activity, RRSGSL supplemental rules 16.2.3 through 16.2.8 Game Rules, will used as guidelines to complete and/or reschedule activity.
Care of Victims of Lightning Strikes
The first priority of personnel is to move the lightning strike victim to a safe location. Prompt, aggressive CPR has been highly effective for the survival of victims of lightning strikes. Therefore, it is critical that CPR and AED use is initiated as soon as safely possible. During an ongoing thunderstorm, lightning activity in the local area still poses a deadly hazard for personnel responding to the victim. Personnel should consider his/her own personal safety before venturing into a dangerous situation to render care.
