THREATENING
WEATHER POLICY

  1. At theย firstย sound of nearby thunder or any sighting of visible lightning, the coaches and/or umpires shall determine the โ€œflash-to-bangโ€ count (the seconds between the flash of lightning and the bang of thunder). When the โ€œflash-to-bangโ€ count is 30 seconds or less, the game or practiceย must be stopped immediately:


    ย  ย  ย -If prior to the beginning of a game, the opposing head coaches will make the decision whether to begin play after the storm has ended.

    ย  ย  ย –After a game starts, the umpire-in-charge will in his/her discretion determine when/whether to suspend play and when/whether to resume play after the storm has ended. If the threatening condition(s) do not clear within a reasonable period of time, the game should be called/suspended and completed at a later date, if possible.

    ย  ย  ย -Ifย during a practice, the head coach will make the decision whether to resume practice after the storm has ended.

    ย  ย  ย –ย In all casesย where the game/practice has been stopped due to the โ€œflash-to-bangโ€ count, there shall be a delay of the game/practice ofย not less than thirty (30) minutes after the last visual sighting of lightning or hearing thunder.

  2. Seek shelter in a non-metal building or a fully enclosed vehicle with the windows completely shut and wait for a decision on whether to continue the game or practice.

  3. Stay away from metal objects such as fencing and metal bats. Avoid high ground and open spaces. Avoid the dugouts – they are not safe from lightning. Avoid going underneath trees since trees “attract” lightning.

  4. If no shelter is available and lightning is striking nearby, you should:
    ย  ย  ย -Avoid direct contact with other people
    ย  ย  ย -Remove all metal objects from your person

  5. If a nearby person is injured from lightning, give first aid procedures if you are qualified to do so. An injured person does not carry an electrical charge and can be handled safely. Send for help immediately.

Safety Policy

Being Safe and having Fun is our top goal!