Lightning Policy

Introduction

This policy provides a guide for the suspension and resumption of water polo activity at Newman Water Polo Players Association (NWPPA) when there is a risk of lightning.  Its implementation will improve the safety of NWPPA members.

Procedure

The 30/30 Rule

The 30/30 Rule is recommended for lightning safety in the Australian Standard on LightningProtection. Flash to bang is the time elapse from the visual recognition of a lightning flashto the sound of thunder.

The duty officer should be monitoring the storm’s approach and as the flash to bang count
nears 30 seconds, people at risk should already be seeking safe shelter.  

Close Pool

Where the flash to bang count is less than 30 seconds – this indicates that the lightning is approximately 10km away. This is associated with significant risk that the strike could be at the pool area.  A “flash to bang” count of 30 seconds or less requires immediate and urgent evacuation to safety.

Seek shelter in the clubhouse – avoid small structures and isolated or small groups of trees.

If swimming leave the water immediately and seek shelter.

Avoid the use of portable radios and mobile telephones during a thunderstorm.

If emergency calls are required keep them brief. 

The second part of the 30/30 rule provides the criteria for resuming activities.  It is recommended that the storm be 20km away before it is considered safe.  A typical storm moves at 40km/h, so waiting 30 minutes after the last thunder is heard or lightning seen provides the 20km safe distance.