What should I do if someone is struck by lightning?
Guideline- USA
- NFHS SMAC lightning guidelines
- National Weather Service
- Outdoor sports
- Youth and high school sports
- All ages
- 2024 guidance
- Officials
- Coaches
- Spectators
According to the National Weather Service:
- It's safe to touch them. Lightning victims don't carry an electrical charge, and they need immediate medical attention.
- Call 911 right away, or have someone else call.
- Give first aid. Cardiac arrest is the immediate cause of death in lightning fatalities, so check whether the person is breathing and has a pulse. Start CPR if needed, use an AED if one is available, and keep monitoring them until help arrives.
Updated 21 Oct 2026