Heat & Weather Policies
Player safety is the top priority during extreme weather conditions. Officials must be aware of heat-related illnesses, lightning protocols, and other weather-related considerations to ensure the safety of players, coaches, and spectators.
Heat Safety Guidelines
High temperatures and humidity increase the risk of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Officials should be aware of the following guidelines when working in extreme heat:
Hydration & Prevention
- Encourage frequent water breaks for players and officials.
- Watch for signs of dehydration, such as excessive sweating, dizziness, or confusion.
- Consider modifying the pace of play if conditions become unsafe.
Heat Index & Game Adjustments
When the heat index reaches dangerous levels, leagues may modify game conditions based on local policies:
- 85-95°F: Encourage extra hydration breaks.
- 96-104°F: Mandatory water breaks every quarter or every 10 minutes.
- 105°F+: Consider delaying or postponing games.
Recognizing Heat-Related Illnesses
Officials should be aware of the warning signs of heat-related illnesses:
| Condition | Symptoms | Immediate Action |
|---|---|---|
| Heat Cramps | Muscle cramps, sweating, thirst | Hydrate, stretch, move to shade |
| Heat Exhaustion | Heavy sweating, dizziness, nausea, headache | Stop play, cool down, hydrate |
| Heat Stroke (Emergency) | Confusion, dry skin, rapid pulse, collapse | Call 911, use ice packs, cool immediately |
If a player or official shows signs of heat stroke, call emergency medical services (EMS) immediately.
Lightning & Severe Weather Policies
Lacrosse is an outdoor sport, making lightning safety a key concern. Officials must follow strict protocols in the event of lightning, thunderstorms, or extreme weather.
Lightning Detection & Delays
- If lightning is seen or thunder is heard, suspend play immediately.
- Use the 30-minute rule: Play may not resume until 30 minutes after the last lightning strike or thunderclap.
- All players, coaches, and officials must seek indoor shelter or inside a fully enclosed vehicle.
- Bleachers, trees, dugouts, and tents are NOT safe locations.
Tornado or Severe Storms
- If a tornado warning is issued, games should be stopped immediately.
- All personnel should move to the nearest safe shelter.
- Games will be postponed or rescheduled based on league policies.
Cold Weather & Wind Chill Guidelines
Extreme cold can also impact player and official safety. Some leagues may enforce the following temperature-based adjustments:
- Below 40°F: Extra warm-up time recommended.
- Below 32°F: Additional clothing (gloves, hats, warm-ups) allowed.
- Below 20°F: Game modifications or cancellations may be considered.
Wind chill factors should also be considered, as extreme cold can lead to frostbite and hypothermia.
Official’s Role in Weather Delays
- Monitor weather conditions before and during games.
- If necessary, suspend play and communicate with both teams.
- Ensure all players and personnel take proper shelter.
- Follow league and site-specific safety policies regarding weather-related game suspensions.
Resuming Play After a Weather Delay
- Play can resume only when conditions are deemed safe by officials and game management.
- Lightning delays follow the 30-minute rule before restarting.
- If the game is unable to resume within a reasonable time, follow league rules for rescheduling or ending the contest.
By following these heat and weather policies, officials ensure a safe playing environment while minimizing unnecessary risks to athletes, coaches, and themselves.