Lightning Policy
Purpose To formalize a policy on lightning safety and provide lightning written guidelines
Responsibilities:
Coaches: Has the responsibility to be aware of the changing weather conditions and take appropriate action to ensure the safety of the players and spectators.
Board Members: LAFA has established a Manager of the Day (MOD) during the regular season. It is the responsibility of the MOD it to ensure the lightning policy is consistently enforced at the complex. The MOD has the absolute authority to stop play at any time because of the weather conditions. No game can begin play after a weather delay without his approval. The MOD is also responsible to look for developing thunderstorm indications such as increasing winds, darkling clouds and any lightning or thunder.
Tournament Director: During a tournament game, it is the responsibility of the umpire to stop play because of weather conditions. The TD has the absolute authority not to start any game because of the weather conditions. The TD is also responsible to look for developing thunderstorm indications such as increasing winds, darkening clouds and any lightning or thunder.
Criteria for Stopping Activities: On sight of nearby lightning, or (potentially) sound of thunder, the coaches and the MOD shall stop the game and move the players to a safe location.
Notification for Stoppage of Activities: The MOD or TD will use an air horn to notify the complex that play should be suspended
(ONE Long Blast).
Criteria for Resumption of Activities: Wait at least 30 minutes after the last sound of thunder or observed lightning before resuming activities.
Notification for Resumption of Activities: The MOD or TD will use an air horn to notify the complex that all plays can resume
(TWO Long Blasts).
Safe Locations: Whenever possible players should be moved to cars or buildings.
Unsafe Locations: Players and spectators should avoid open areas, metal fences and bleachers.
Equipment Location: Air Horns will be located in the Concession Stand and Hale Field Press Box Conference Room.
