Based on NATA & NCAA Recommendations
CCSU’s Athletics
utilizes a Lightning Prediction System. This system is fully automated
and all coaches and athletes must immediately leave the athletic fields
upon sounding of the horn. During electrical storm seasons, the coaching
staff is responsible for monitoring local forecasts/warnings and actively
looks for the signs of threatening weather. Coaches should obtain a
weather report each day before practice or an event. Be aware of
potential thunderstorms that may form during scheduled intercollegiate
athletics events or practices. Also, please be aware of the National
Weather Service issued thunderstorm “watches” and “warnings”, as well as
the signs of thunderstorms developing nearby.
“Watch” – conditions
are favorable for severe weather to develop in the area.
“Warning” – severe weather has been
reported in an area and for everyone to take proper precautions.
Local weather reports can be obtained at:
www.weather.com
www.ccsu.edu/weather
Lightning is a severe hazard that must be
viewed seriously. Everyone should immediately seek shelter any time they
believe Lightning threatens, even if the signal has NOT sounded. Postpone
or suspend activity if a thunderstorm appears imminent before or during an
activity or contest, (irrespective of whether lightning is seen or thunder
is heard) until the hazard has passed. Signs of imminent thunderstorm
activity are darkening clouds, high winds, and thunder or lightning
activity.
1.
The Lightning prediction
and warning system will sound one-15 second blast of the horn
signaling suspension of all activities. A strobe light located on the
north end of the soccer field (near blue storage shed) will begin flashing
and remain flashing until safe conditions return.
2.
Athletes and coaches must
immediately seek an appropriate safe shelter.
3.
Activities may resume only
after 3 –5 second blasts of the horn is sounded and the strobe
light stops flashing.
4.
If you remain outdoors
after the warning is issued you do so at your own risk.
5.
Safe Shelter For CCSU
Athletic Fields: The nearest designated safe structure or location is the
stadium locker rooms or closest dormitory. *Please note that the
dugouts are not considered safe shelters during electrical storms.
a.
A safe location is any substantial, frequently inhabited building.
The building should have four solid walls (not a dugout), electrical and
telephone wiring, as well as plumbing, all of which aid in grounding a
structure i.e. stadium locker room
b.
The secondary choice for a safer location from the lightning hazard
is a fully enclosed vehicle with a metal roof and the windows completely
closed. It is important to not touch any part of the metal framework of
the vehicle while inside it during ongoing thunderstorms.
6.
It is
not safe to shower, bathe, or talk on landline phones while inside of a
safe shelter during thunderstorms
7.
Avoid
being the highest point in an open field, in contact with, or proximity to
the highest point, as well as being on the open water. Do not take
shelter under or near trees, flagpoles, metal fences or light poles.
8.
Should
you be caught in a Lightning storm, assume the lightning safe position
(crouch on the ground, weight on the balls of the feet, feet together,
head lowered, and ears covered) for individuals who feel their hair stand
on end, skin tingle, or hear “crackling” noises. Do not lie flat on the
ground.
9.
If system fails to warn:
Use the Flash-to-Bang count to determine when to go to safety. By the
time the flash-to-bang count approaches thirty seconds all individuals
should be inside a safe structure.
a.
Flash-to-Bang: To use the
flash-to-bang method, begin counting when sighting a lightning flash.
Counting is stopped when the associated bang (thunder) is heard. Divide
this count by five to determine the distance to the lightning flash (in
miles). For example, a flash-to-bang count of thirty seconds equates to a
distance of six miles. Lightning has struck from as far away as 10 miles
from the storm center.
b.
Once activities have been suspended, wait at least thirty minutes
following the last sound of thunder or lightning flash prior to resuming
an activity or returning outdoors.
10.
Observe the following basic
first aid procedures in managing victims of a lightning strike:
a.
Survey the scene for safety.
b.
Activate local EMS.
c.
Lightning victims do not
‘carry a charge’ and are safe to touch.
d.
If necessary, move the
victim with care to a safer location.
e.
Evaluate airway, breathing,
and circulation, and begin CPR if necessary.
f.
Evaluate and treat for
hypothermia, shock, fractures and/or burns.
g.
All
individuals have the right to leave an athletic site in order to seek a
safe structure if the person feels in danger of impending lightning
activity, without fear of repercussions or penalty from anyone.
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