How can you protect your golf course from lightning strikes?

2 Have a safety plan

The second step to protect your golf course from lightning strikes is to have a clear and comprehensive safety plan that covers the procedures, roles, and communication methods for dealing with a thunderstorm. Your staff should be trained on how to implement the plan and regular drills should be conducted to test its effectiveness. The plan should include a designated person or team to monitor the weather, a reliable and audible warning system, such as sirens or horns, to alert everyone on the course of the danger, a sufficient number of safe shelters that are grounded and enclosed, a clear evacuation route and time frame for everyone to reach the shelters quickly, and a method to account for all the staff and guests. It is important to avoid open or isolated structures, such as tents or trees, that can attract lightning.

3 Educate your staff and guests

The third step to protect your golf course from lightning strikes is to educate your staff and guests on the risks and precautions of lightning. You should inform them of your safety plan and expectations before they start their activities and remind them of the warning signs and shelter locations during their stay. You should also display signs, posters, or flyers around the course that highlight the dangers of lightning and the best practices to avoid it. For example, you can use the 30-30 rule, which states that if you hear thunder within 30 seconds of seeing lightning, you should seek shelter immediately and wait at least 30 minutes after the last thunder before resuming your activities.

4 Maintain your equipment and facilities

The fourth step to protect your golf course from lightning strikes is to maintain your equipment and facilities regularly and ensure that they are in good working order and comply with the safety standards. You should inspect and repair your warning system, shelters, electrical wiring, grounding rods, and lightning protection devices, such as surge protectors, arresters, or suppressors, to prevent malfunctions or damage from lightning. You should also remove or trim any trees, poles, or other objects that can attract or conduct lightning near your course or shelters.

5 Review and improve your practices

The fifth step to protect your golf course from lightning strikes is to review and improve your practices periodically and learn from your experiences and feedback. You should evaluate the effectiveness and efficiency of your safety plan and make any necessary adjustments or updates based on the changing weather patterns, technology, or regulations. You should also solicit and incorporate the input and suggestions of your staff, guests, and experts on how to enhance your lightning protection measures and awareness. You should also document and report any incidents or near misses involving lightning and use them as learning opportunities to prevent future occurrences.

6 Protect your golf course from lightning strikes

Lightning is a serious threat to your golf course that can jeopardize the safety and satisfaction of your staff and guests, as well as the reputation and profitability of your business. By following these tips, you can reduce the likelihood and impact of lightning strikes and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone on your course.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?