Scheduled for Psychology/Leisure and Recreation Posters, Thursday, April 11, 2002, 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM, San Diego Convention Center: Exhibit Hall


An Analysis of Lightning-Related Safety Policies and Procedures of Public Park and Recreation Agencies in Florida

John O. Spengler, Daniel P. Connaughton, James, J. Zhang, Heather J. Gibson and Zachary Rothberg, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL

Lightning is one of the most underrated and consistent causes of weather-related deaths and injuries. Every year in the United States, approximately 100 fatalities and hundreds of injuries that require medical attention are caused by lightning. Lightning-related deaths and injuries from sport and recreational activities have risen dramatically over the past several decades, particularly in the state of Florida. The risk of lightning-related deaths and injuries appears to be of greatest concern during the most active time periods for participation in sport and recreational activities. The vast majority of lightning-related deaths and injuries occur between May and September, the greatest risk period occurring between 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. Identifying effective procedures to prevent such occurrences is fundamental to the safety of sport and recreation participants. The purpose of this investigation was to examine selected lightning-related risk management practices by Florida’s public park and recreation agencies. Based on a review of the literature, interviews with specialists in recreation administration and athletic training, and a test of content validity by a panel of four experts in sport and recreation studies, a questionnaire with 14 items was developed. Using a modified total design method (Dillman, 1978), a mail survey was sent to all 178 directors of public park and recreation agencies in Florida; 117 responded (66% response rate). Results indicate that 51% of the respondents perceived lightning strikes to be a high or very high safety risk at their facilities. Concurrently, 54% of the respondents indicated that they do not provide formal training regarding lightning safety to their staff, and 69% do not provide information regarding lightning safety to their participants. Although 77% indicated that they monitor for lightning, 65% indicated that they do not have a written safety policy regarding lightning, and 59% indicated that they do not have a written action plan to follow in the event of lightning. Furthermore, 57% of the respondents indicated that they do not have identified shelters for the purposes of seeking safety from lightning. Last, only 52% and 12% of the respondents require their part-time staff and volunteers, respectively, to hold current CPR certification. Recommendations arising from the study regarding lightning safety based on the National Athletic Trainers’ Association position statement (2000) are provided. Given the importance of lightning as a safety concern, the results of this study may help provide guidance in the formation and implementation of lightning safety policies and action plans.
Keyword(s): administration/mgmt, athletics/sports, safety/injury prevention

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