Lightning Safety Guide
Lightning Safety Guide for Sports and Special Events
Developed in coordination with the Cybersecurity Infrastructure and Security Agency (CISA), this guide provides practical, scalable guidance to support lightning safety planning and operations for events of all sizes. Lightning risk at outdoor sports and special events has implications for:
- Public Safety: Lightning poses a direct risk of injury or death to spectators, athletes, performers, staff, and first responders. Because lightning can develop rapidly and strike beyond rainfall, unclear or delayed protective actions can put large crowds at immediate risk.
- Event Operations and Emergency Management: Lightning incidents require fast, coordinated decisions—such as shelter‑in‑place, evacuation, or event suspension. Without clear decision points and defined roles, venues may face confusion or delays that increase safety risks
Lightning safety plans are not one‑size‑fits‑all, and venue and event leaders are encouraged to tailor their approaches based on venue size, crowd characteristics, available shelter, and operational complexity. CISA encourages event organizers to review this guide, assess their event plans, and implement recommended actions.
Access the resource guide here.