In the event of a lightning storm, we will make every effort to contact each sport's head coach when conditions become unsafe for practice or competition. There remains, however, the possibility that the decision to continue or suspend/move activity will rest on the coach. We do employ lightning detection technology which can indicate the distance of lightning activity and whether it is moving towards or away, however, we will deem outdoor activity unsafe when the flash-to-bang time is less than 30 seconds. Flash-to-bang is the time from when lightning flashes to when thunder is heard. As sound travels one mile in five seconds, a flash-to-bang ratio under 30 seconds indicates that lightning activity is occurring within six miles--well within ground strike distance.
Should it be determined that outdoor activity is unsafe, everyone should move to an adequate lightning shelter. This is an enclosed structure (having four walls and a roof) with either plumbing or grounded wiring. The closest lightning shelter to each outdoor venue is indicated on each venue's Emergency Action Plan. Shelterees shall remain in place for 30 minutes after the flash-to-bang duration exceeds 30 seconds. Should a subsequent flash-to-bang interval of less than 30 seconds be appreciated, the 30 minute shelter period shall start anew.
