Purpose

The Ruston Sports Complex is dedicated to providing safe, high-quality athletic facilities for the enjoyment of the City of Ruston residents and our community partners. This policy is designed to ensure the safety of all participants and preserve the quality of our fields during inclement weather. Adhering to these guidelines helps prevent injuries and minimizes damage to playing surfaces. User groups are expected to assist in maintaining these standards and protecting both participants and fields during adverse weather conditions.

Policy

The Ruston Sports Complex reserves the right to cancel or suspend outdoor activities, including games, practices, and other events, when weather conditions pose a safety risk or could damage the fields. Activities may also be suspended when participant health and safety are at risk due to severe weather or hazardous conditions.

Decisions regarding field closures will be made in collaboration with City maintenance staff and Complex management, utilizing advanced weather monitoring systems provided by Perry Weather to ensure accurate and timely decisions.

Lightning Policy

The Ruston Sports Complex employs Perry Weather’s state-of-the-art weather monitoring technology to enhance safety during thunderstorms. Perry Weather’s advanced systems provide real-time, location-specific data and automated lightning alerts to ensure a prompt response to hazardous weather conditions.

Lightning Policy

The Ruston Sports Complex employs Perry Weather’s state-of-the-art weather monitoring technology to enhance safety during thunderstorms. Perry Weather’s advanced systems provide real-time, location-specific data and automated lightning alerts to ensure a prompt response to hazardous weather conditions

Procedure During Lightning Events

1. Automated Alerts:
   Perry Weather’s monitoring system continuously tracks lightning activity in the area. If lightning is detected within a 5-mile radius, automated alerts will trigger audible sirens throughout the facility to signal an immediate need for evacuation.
2. Evacuation Protocol:
   Upon hearing the siren, all visitors must immediately exit the gates and seek shelter in a safe, enclosed structure. Note that dugouts, metal coverings, bleacher covers, pavilions, and batting cages are NOT considered safe shelters due to their open design. Acceptable shelters include enclosed vehicles or permanent buildings.
3. Lightning Delays:
   Play will be suspended for a minimum of 30 minutes following each lightning strike within the 5-mile radius. Every subsequent strike resets the 30-minute delay.
4. Resumption of Play:
   Once 30 minutes have passed without a lightning strike, Perry Weather’s system will confirm that conditions are safe. Complex staff, league directors, and event coordinators will then notify participants that play may resume.

Field Playability Assessment

During inclement weather, Complex officials will carefully evaluate field conditions to ensure safety and playability. Using real-time data from Perry Weather—such as rainfall totals, field saturation levels, and storm activity—they will make informed decisions regarding field closures or usage restrictions.

Compliance

All user groups are required to adhere to this policy and follow the directives of Ruston Sports Complex staff during inclement weather. Failure to comply with evacuation and safety protocols may result in suspension of facility use.