Columnist Peter Benton: Don't toy with lightning on links

PETER BENTON is a local golfer. His column appears Wednesdays.

DURING LAST SUNDAY'S sudden and somewhat unexpected thunderstorm, golfers continued to play on each of three local courses that were visited.

If people -- and golfers in particular -- would only realize that since 1959 lightning has killed nearly 3,000 people in this country and injured almost 7,000 more, they would perhaps give more thought to the perils of playing in such weather.

The simple fact is that golfers and clubs -- hand-held lightning rods -- are prime targets when out on a course, and thus are far more likely to be struck. So take heed of the following:

* If you see lightning or hear thunder; even in the distance, get off the course immediately.

* Rush to a dense, wooded area. Seeking refuge under a lone tree is extremely dangerous, but thickets of short trees are relatively safe. (That's tough to do in our desert area, but it's worth remembering.)

* If shelter is nowhere near and you feel the hair on your arms or head rise, fall to your knees and tuck your head down.

* Take off your spiked shoes. Metal spikes attract electricity and will conduct it right through your body.

* Get rid of your umbrella. It could attract lightning, which tends to strike the highest point in the immediate vicinity.

* Stand well away from your golf clubs and never get caught holding one. Clubs are a natural lightning lightning rod.

* Get as far away from lakes and ponds as possible. Water is a terrific conductor of electricity.

* Do not seek refuge in a golf cart. Contrary to popular belief, it is not a safe haven.

* Avoid the greens. Greens are often a bit higher than the surrounding terrain, making them, and particularly the flag stick, far more likely to be hit. However, if you are caught on a green, move rapidly to a greenside bunker and kneel down.

Remember, don't stand there gawking at the spectacular display lightning often provides. Take refuge in any small depression, crouch, and stay alive.

Colbert endowment

Jim Colbert has endorsed an endowment fund that will be set up by the Southern Nevada Junior Golf Association.

The Jim Colbert Las Vegas Founders Junior Scholarship Fund will provide scholarships for young people who otherwise could not afford to pursue an education beyond the high school level.

Colbert has given $50,000 to the fund. His donation has been matched by the Las Vegas Founders' Club, the charitable arm of the Las Vegas Senior Classic and the Las Vegas Invitational.

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