A golf course, with its ground elevations, open fields, isolated trees, golf carts, and water, provides the perfect environment for lightning injuries or death. Consider the facts and tips below to keep yourself safe while on the links:

• Check weather forecasts before hitting the course.
• Sign up to receive severe weather alerts via your cell phone while playing your round of golf.
• Know that you should never race a thunderstorm to the end of a round, or even to the next hole.
• Learn the course policies and warnings on severe weather.
• Know where your nearest shelter is and how long it will take to get there.

• Keep an eye on the sky. Look for darkening skies, flashes of light, or increasing wind. Listen for sounds of thunder.
• A storm that is far away can still produce lightning that can kill. If you hear thunder you are in danger. Seek shelter immediately.
• Use the 30/30 Lightning Rule. Count the seconds between the "flash" and "bang" and seek shelter when the time is less than 30 seconds. Do not resume your golf game until at least 30 minutes after the last audible thunder.
• The best place to seek cover is a large, closed-in building such as a clubhouse. Avoid isolated trees and water. If you are caught out in the open in a thunderstorm with no shelter nearby, find a low place, such as a ravine or a valley. Crouch down so you are not the hightest object, place your hands on your knees with your head between them. Never lie flat on the ground.
• Do not stay in a group if caught outside. Stay several yards away from other people if caught in the storm.
• Golf clubs can become electrical conductors, which lightning will seek out. If you hear thunder or see lightning, drop your clubs and your bag. Golf carts can also conduct electricity, so move far away from the cart. Additionally, if you are wearing metal spikes, remove them.
• Most golf courses have warning sirens or rangers that keep players informed on severe weather conditions. If you hear the severe weather siren, drop clubs and seek the closest shelter.
• If someone is struck by lightning, call 9-1-1 immediately. If breathing has stopped, begin resuce breathing. If the heart has stopped beating, a trained person should give CPR.