LA PINE SPORTS ACADEMY (LPSA)

Weather & Environmental Safety Policy

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to ensure the safety of all athletes, coaches, officials, and spectators during LPSA activities while recognizing the realities of outdoor sports in Central Oregon.

LPSA prioritizes player safety first, while allowing families reasonable discretion in non-hazardous conditions.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all LPSA-sanctioned activities, including:

• Practices

• Games

• Tournaments

• Camps and clinics

• Fundraisers and community events involving youth participation

3. General Standard

• Safety is the primary consideration in all weather-related decisions

• Activities will be modified, delayed, or canceled when conditions present a safety risk

• In non-hazardous conditions, participation decisions may be left to parents/guardians

4. Lightning Policy (OSAA Standard – Mandatory)

• Weather conditions will be monitored before and during all activities

• At the first sign of lightning or thunder, all activities must be immediately suspended

• All participants must seek appropriate shelter:

enclosed buildings

fully enclosed vehicles

NOT dugouts, tents, or trees

30-Minute Rule:

• Activities may not resume until 30 minutes after the last lightning strike or thunder

This standard is non-negotiable and applies to all LPSA events.

5. Heat Policy (OSAA-Aligned)

LPSA follows OSAA guidance for heat-related safety:

• 80°F+ – Increased monitoring and hydration encouraged

• 95°F+ – Activities should be modified (shortened duration, additional breaks)

• 100°F+ – Strong consideration to delay, reschedule, or cancel

• 105°F+ – All outdoor activities are canceled

6. Air Quality Policy (LPSA Standard)

LPSA monitors Air Quality Index (AQI) using Oregon DEQ and related state sources.

• AQI 100–150

Activities may continue with modifications, including reduced intensity and additional breaks

• AQI 151–200

Activities will be modified with close monitoring

Parents/guardians may remove their child at any time without penalty

• AQI 201+

Outdoor athletic activities may be canceled at the discretion of LPSA

Additional guidance and communication procedures are outlined in the official LPSA Air Quality Policy  .

7. Rain, Snow, and Cold Weather

• LPSA activities will generally continue in rain and snow

• Weather conditions alone will not automatically result in cancellation

• Participation in these conditions is at the discretion of parents/guardians

• Families may choose to withhold participation due to weather conditions without penalty

8. Severe Weather & Field Conditions

Activities may be delayed, modified, or canceled when conditions are deemed unsafe, including:

• High winds

• Poor visibility

• Standing water or unsafe field conditions

• Any environmental condition that presents a risk of injury

9. Authority & Decision-Making

• Final authority for cancellations or delays rests with:

LPSA Board

Site Director / Field Coordinator

• Coaches may modify or shorten activities for safety

• Coaches may not override official cancellations

10. Communication

• LPSA will make reasonable efforts to notify families of cancellations or delays

• Communication methods may include:

Sports Connect

Team communication apps

Email

• When possible, updates will be provided 1–2 hours prior to scheduled activities

• If conditions change during an activity:

Activities may be suspended immediately

Parents may be asked to pick up athletes early

11. Parent / Guardian Responsibility

• Parents/guardians are encouraged to monitor weather and environmental conditions

• Parents retain the right to withhold participation based on their child’s health, safety, or comfort

12. Guiding Principle

When conditions are dangerous:

Activities will stop immediately

When conditions are uncomfortable but not unsafe:

Families may decide what is best for their child

13. Adoption

This policy is adopted and enforced by the La Pine Sports Academy Board.