Lightning Safety

All referees are responsible for making the safest decision when dealing with severe weather. No game matters more than the lives of the players, coaches, spectators, and referees. If in doubt, or if you disagree with a site coordinator's decision to continue or return to play, contact your assignor. Lightning within a 10 mile radius is close enough to strike.

WHEN THUNDER IS HEARD

LIGHTNING IS SEEN

SUSPEND PLAY,

NOTE THE GAME TIME AND SCORE,

TAKE SHELTER IMMEDIATELY

PRESS BOXES, SHEDS, STORAGE BUILDINGS,

PICNIC SHELTERS, OR DUGOUTS WILL NOT PROVIDE ADEQUATE

PROTECTION

THIRTY-MINUTE RULE

WAIT AT LEAST 30 MINUTES AFTER THE LAST

THUNDER IS HEARD OR FLASH OF LIGHTNING

BEFORE RESUMING PLAY

ANY SUBSEQUENT THUNDER OR LIGHTNING RESETS

THE CLOCK AND BEGINS ANOTHER 30 MINUTE DELAY