Did you know that at any one time, there are likely about 2,000 storms containing lightning through out the world? Each storm on it’s own produces an astounding number of lightning bolts. Every bolt of lightning packs enough energy to keep a 100 watt lighbult lit for more than a quarter of a year. When you think about how frequent and explosive the effects of lightning are, are you not surprised that more people are not injured or killed by these powerful bolts of electricity?
It is during the summer months in North America when most lightning strikes the ground. When are children most likely most likely to be outdoors playing sports? June, July and August – in the afternoons and early evenings!
In these situations, the adults involved — the parents, coaches, and officials — are responsible for ensuring the safety of the child athletes. A thunderstorm policy should be written out with clear guidelines that are easy to implement and a responsible adult should monitor the weather conditions and forecast. If at all possible, don’t rely only on personal observation of the storm. The use of a portable lightning detector at the sports venue can provide superior advance warning and ensuring the safety of those involved.
Officials including convenors, referees and others involved in sports of children should be educated on how to ensure the safety of those attending the games when there is risk of lightning strikes.
If you can see lightning or hear the claps of thunder, it is a good idea to postpone the game and maybe even consider cancelling it until another day. Your athletes are already at risk. It may not yet be raining, but the risk of a lightning stike is remains quite increased. Many lightning strike injuries occur as the storm begins as many are just not aware of the risks. Many people are unaware that a lightning strike could happen a distance of fifteen kilometers or more from where the rain is dropping.
As the thunder claps become louder and more often, the storm is getting closer and your risk is increased. Your youth’s team should be in a safe place already, when the lightning strikes and thunderclaps are thirty seconds or less apart.
When available, pay attention to weather warning devices such as NOAA weather radio and/or credible SkyScan lightning detector. However, do not let this information override good common sense.
Large buildings provide a much safer environment during a storm than smaller ones. Small structures like gazebos and cabanas should be avoided during thunderstorms.
Learn more about the ews pro lightning detector.