If this policy seems conservative, that is by design. There is no acceptable level of lightning risk for a lacrosse activity. During the past 30 years, about 50 people, on average, have been killed by lightning strikes every year. Many lighting strikes occur when people do not get to appropriate shelter fast enough or return to a location too soon. If you hear thunder, there is lightning somewhere nearby, even if you do not see it.
Verified violations of this policy are considered severe violations and will result in suspensions and/or participant expulsion depending on severity.
All HSLL Programs are required to adhere to the 30/30 rule at all times
Lightning Seen or Thunder Heard
If there are 30 seconds or less between lightning and thunder, stop all activities and seek immediate indoor shelter. If lightning was not seen but thunder was heard, assume less than 30 seconds. Do not wait for another lightning flash to stop activity and seek shelter.
Remain sheltered for 30 minutes after the last thunder has been heard
When thunder is heard or a cloud-to-ground lightning bolt is seen, the thunderstorm is close enough to strike your location.
When seeking shelter:
- Suspend play and instruct all participants to seek indoor shelter off the field.
- Warn spectators or any other non-participants present.
This policy applies to all HSLL activities, including, but not limited to, practices and games.
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Once 30 minutes has gone by since the last thunder was heard, the officials will determine if you can resume the contest. The head coach has authority when officials are not present.
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Officials have the ultimate authority to suspend play or cancel a game due to unsafe weather conditions.
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Officials will report the status of the game at the time of suspension to the League and the League will determine if the game is to be resumed at a later date, re-played or removed from the schedule.