What do I do if I hear thunder during a match?

Ontario Soccer's lightning safety policy says to get to a safe location as soon as you hear thunder, because if you can hear thunder you can be hit by lightning.

• Safe location: a fully enclosed building with wiring and plumbing, such as a clubhouse. Sheds, picnic shelters, tents and covered porches do not protect you. If no sturdy building is close, a vehicle with a hard metal roof and the windows up is better than staying outdoors. Do not shelter in the showers.
• Restarting: wait at least 30 minutes after the last flash of lightning or sound of thunder before returning to the field.
• Who decides: the match official has the final say over delaying or restarting a match because of weather.
• Plan ahead: know where the closest safe structure is and how long it takes to reach it. Larger groups need more time to clear the area.

Source: Ontario Soccer Participant Safety Policies and Guides (30 June 2026), Lightning Safety / Severe Weather.