Safety Procedures

Emergency Action Plan Resources

DIAA Emergency Procedure Action Plan

(Updated 3/2024) As stated in the NFHS Sports Medicine Handbook, the Emergency Action Plan (EAP) is a clearly defined plan of action that medical and athletic staff should design and implement in case an emergency occurs at practice, at a venue, or within the community involving a school’s athletic team. All schools participating in athletic events must have an EAP in place to assist in the safety of its participants.

EAP Resources

Anyone Can Save a Life: Emergency Action Planning Program
Emergency Action Plan Worksheets: Student Response Team and Event Staff

Heat & Cold Weather Policy Guidelines

Heat Policy Guidelines (revised fall 2025)
Cold Weather Guidelines – General
Cold Weather Guidelines – Indoor Track

Thunder & Lightning Policy Guidelines

NFHS Thunder & Lightning Guidelines (updated 10.2024)

Updated NFHS rules now clarify that decisions regarding lightning and thunder interruptions are a shared responsibility, no longer resting solely with game officials. Rule 4-4-1 has been revised to place authority with “responsible authorities,” emphasizing the role of host site management in coordinating weather-related decisions in alignment with Appendix E guidelines.

The latest NFHS Lightning and Thunder Guidelines (October 2024) reinforce key safety protocols, including:

Immediate Suspension & Evacuation: If lightning is seen or thunder is heard, all participants and spectators must evacuate to a designated, fully enclosed safe structure (e.g., building with plumbing/wiring or fully enclosed vehicle).
30-Minute Rule: A 30-minute countdown starts after the last flash of lightning or clap of thunder is observed.
Reset Procedure: Any subsequent thunder or lightning after the start of the 30-minute count resets the timer, requiring a new 30-minute delay.
Technology Use: While technology like apps or detectors can aid in identifying strikes within a 10-mile radius, human observation of thunder/lightning takes precedence.
Safety Responsibilities: Event organizers, coaches, and officials should be trained in safety protocols and proactively monitor local weather conditions

Officials and host site administrators and athletic trainers are expected to work collaboratively, remain weather-aware, and review emergency procedures prior to the start of the contest to ensure a coordinated and safe response.