PCLL Lightning Policy, Procedures, and Prediction System
Summary of how the Lightning Prediction System works:
One 15-second blast and the strobe light activated signals a potentially dangerous weather situation approaching. Clear the area immediately and find appropriate shelter. 3 short blasts and the strobe light off signals all clear, safe to return. If you see lightning or hear thunder, even if the alarm doesn’t sound, potentially dangerous weather is approaching. Clear the area and return 20 minutes
after last occurrence.
Key important points to remember:
- The system detects electricity in the air and in the ground. (Cloud to ground lightning)
- The strobe and siren will sound approximately 10-15 minutes before a potential strike within the area (3 - 5 miles).
- All activities at the park cease and everyone must seek shelter while the strobe is activated.
- The Hitting Facility is NOT considered a safe location and activity must cease while the strobe is activated.
- The overhang at the clubhouse is NOT a safe location.
- The dugouts are NOT a safe location.
- The only safe location at the park is INSIDE of the Clubhouse or inside of your car.
- The system continues to predict lightning while the strobe is activated.
- When imminent lightning strikes are no longer predicted, the strobe will turn off and the system will signal all clear via 3 sound blasts.
- There is NOT a predetermined amount of time that indicates it is safe to resume activity.
Monitor Weather Conditions
It is recommended that weather reports are checked each day before any practice/game. The National Weather Service (NWS) issues severe weather and/or thunderstorm watches and/or warnings. A “watch” means conditions are favorable for severe weather to develop in a particular area. A “warning” means the NWS has reported severe weather in an area and for anyone in that area to take the necessary precautions. All volunteers should be aware of the signs of thunderstorms developing nearby. Thunderstorms can grow from towering, “fluffy” cumulus clouds to lightning producers in as little as 30 minutes. Lightning and thunder activity in the local area are the “alarms” for managers, coaches, or umpires to begin monitoring thunderstorm activity, such as the direction of storm travel and distance to the lightning flashes.
Emergency Action Plan
In the event that a person is struck by lightning, the following protocol is advised: Any person struck by lightning does not carry an electrical charge, there is no danger presented if the person is touched. Assess the scene to ensure the safety of personnel who will be entering the area. The victim may need to be moved to a safe area before initiating first aid procedures. Activate Emergency Medical Services and provide the necessary first aid which could potentially include CPR, AED use, and/or rescue breathing. There is a defibrillator in the clubhouse.
Returning to the field
In the event of the lighting system sounding, players and coaches may return to the field when the all clear signal has sounded and the flashing light from the PCLL Lightning Prediction System has turned off.
In the event that the fields are cleared because of umpire or BMOD judgment, it is strongly recommended that all persons involved wait at least 20 minutes after the last clap of thunder is heard before resuming the activity.
In the event of any suspension of play, no game shall continue without the all clear being given by the BMOD or another PCLL Board Member.