MOHAWK VALLEY COMMUNITY COLLEGE
DEPARTMENT OF ATHETICS, PHYSICAL EDUCATION & RECREATION
LIGHTNING POLICY
For all outdoor venues, the College will use the following policy to determine suspension of play:
Using a weather app with lightning capabilities (Weather Bug is suggested), any lightning strike 10 miles or closer will suspend outdoor activities. In the event that no weather app is available, use the “flash to bang” rule. Begin timing when you see the first flash of lightning and stop when you hear the rumble of thunder. If the time is 30 seconds or less, all activities must be suspended.
To “suspend activities” means that all practice, play and training must stop, the area must be cleared and players, coaches and spectators must take shelter.
Activities may resume 30 minutes after the last lightning strike in the 10 mile zone has occurred.
Places to take shelter:
Track/Soccer/Lacrosse/Softball Fields/Tennis Courts:
All participants, coaches and spectators will seek shelter in the Jorgensen Center. Spectators also have the option of moving to their vehicles.
Murnane field:
All participants and coaches will move to their respective locker room. Visiting teams also have the option of returning to their vehicles. Spectators will return to their vehicles.
D’Allessandro/Proctor Stadium:
All participants and coaches will return to the Jorgensen Center. Visiting teams have the option of returning to the Jorgensen Center or their vehicles. Spectators will return to their vehicles.
Proctor Park:
All participants, coaches and spectators will seek shelter in their vehicles.
REFERENCES:
NCAA Sports Medicine Handbook 2014-15, Guideline 1E, revised June 2014.
NATA Position Statement, Published Journal of Athletic Training, Vol 48, No. 2, April, 2013.