National Athletic Trainers' Association Position Statement: Lightning Safety for Athletics and Recreation

Abstract

Objective: To present recommendations for the education, prevention, and management of lightning injuries for those involved in athletics or recreation.Background: Lightning is the most common severe-storm activity encountered annually in the United States. The majority of lightning injuries can be prevented through an aggressive educational campaign, vacating outdoor activities before the lightning threat, and an understanding of the attributes of a safe place from the hazard.Recommendations: This position statement is focused on supplying information specific to lightning safety and prevention and treatment of lightning injury and providing lightning-safety recommendations for the certified athletic trainer and those who are involved in athletics and recreation.

Seasonal, Monthly, and Weekly Distributions of NLDN and GLD360 Cloud-to-Ground Lightning

“…The area of the most CG flashes is coincident with the highest SPC severe weather probabilities that are located over Kansas and adjacent states. However, there is an overlap of the diminishing lightning season with the start of high school and college football and soccer activities, resulting in delays and postponements of such sporting events (Walsh et al 2013). The major decrease from August to September indicates that the lightning flash densities began to trend downward at some time during August.…”

The Use of Apps in Athletic Training, Part I: Applications for Sideline Management

“…With use of these apps, the athletic trainer can effectively monitor the safety of participants as outlined in the position statement, while also attending to clinical duties as needed. 13 Apps to Assist With Lightning Safety in Outdoor Sports lightning finder. Description of Function: Lightning Finder (Black Box Development, Melbourne, FL) incorporates data from the North American Precision Lightning Network (NAPLN).…”

Prevention and Management of Physical and Social Environment Risk Factors for Sports-Related Injuries

“…42,43 Many outdoor collegiate sport practices occur during this time frame. Consequently, although the risk of being hit by lightning is relatively low in the general public, athletes may be at increased risk.…”