A survey of lightning policy in selected division I colleges.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this research was to investigate the hazards of lightning for participants in outdoor athletics and to determine the existence of, and assess the nature of, lightning safety policy at the collegiate level.


METHODS
We used data from the National Severe Storms Laboratory in Norman, Oklahoma, and from a survey of Division I institutions.


METHODS
The 48 National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I (football) universities in Florida, Michigan, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, and New York.


METHODS
Athletic trainers at all of the selected 48 Division I institutions responded to the telephone survey.


RESULTS
Florida, Michigan, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, and New York led the country in lightning deaths and injuries from 1959-1994. Only 8% (n = 4) of the institutions surveyed in these states have a written policy regarding lightning safety.


CONCLUSIONS
This study demonstrated the lack of lightning safety policy in the surveyed universities and the need for a systematic plan of action to make fields safer for all who are involved in outdoor sport activities.
Walsh
K M
KM
Hanley
M J
MJ
Graner
S J
SJ
Beam
D
D
Bazluki
J
J