Delay the Game When Thunderstorms Approach

Severe Weather Awareness Week - Feb 22, 2010

Posted February 22, 2010 4:16:51 PM CST

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Richmond, TX - Sports fields are dangerous places to be during thunderstorms. That’s why the National Weather Service and the Governor’s Division of Emergency Management urge Texans to delay the game when thunderstorms approach.

Sports fields are large, open areas where you and your companions may be the tallest objects. Metal bleachers, fences, light poles and goal posts attract lightning. When lightning hits these objects, the charge travels along the object, potentially injuring anyone in contact with the metal. Lightning can bounce off any of these objects and strike people nearby. County Judge Bob Hebert stated, “Lee Trevino used to quip, 'I hold a one iron over my head when lightening is around because not even God can hit a one iron', but as good as all these safety tips are, the best one for all of us is to check the weather and delay or quit outside activity before threatening weather strikes in Fort Bend County."

Schools, athletic programs, day care centers and summer camps, as well as coaches, referees and parents participating in field events need to understand the dangers of lightning. They should be prepared to suspend games and move the players and spectators inside nearby buildings or into cars and buses until the storm threat passes. The Governor’s Division of Emergency Management offers the following lightning safety tips.

If you can hear thunder, you are close enough to be struck by lightning.
If you are outdoors with no shelter available, stay low.
Move away from hills and high places, and avoid tall, isolated trees.
Do not touch metal objects, such as tennis rackets, baseball bats, or golf clubs.
Do not ride bicycles, or lean against fences or metal sheds.
Do not lean against a car or truck -- get inside the vehicle quickly.
If you feel your hair suddenly stand on end, it means you may be a lightning target.
Crouch low on the balls of your feet and try not to touch the ground with your knees or hands.
Avoid wet areas that can conduct the lightning charge.

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