He fought for three weeks but then gave up. The Australian golfer died two days ago after being struck by lightning during a round in a course in Brisbane. Dirk Kotze, this is the man’s name, was 56 years old and lived in Moreton Bay.
Lightning and golf, a combination more frequent than one might think.
Lightning and golf
The accident took place on March 12 on the fairway of the Wantima Golf Course in Brendale. This is a route in the southeast area of Queensland.
Suddenly a violent storm broke out and there was a stampede in the field. Everyone looking for a safe shelter. Kotze was not lucky: a bolt of lightning struck him and caused him to have a cardiac arrest. Fortunately a member of his team, who knew what to do in these situations, immediately practiced cardio-pulmonary respiration, waiting for the paramedical staff.
That gesture allowed Kotze to arrive alive at the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital where he remained attached to life for another three weeks. The family’s words were few but eloquent: “The trauma suffered both by the lightning strike and by the subsequent cardiac arrest was too significant to hope for a recovery”.
Unfortunately lightning and golf related accidents happen more often than you might imagine. A series of tips are circulating on the Net to avoid dangerous situations. Here is a summary: If there is a risk of lightning, do not leave the clubhouse.
If you are in the field, stop playing even before the alarm siren.
Once the storm is (apparently) over, you shouldn’t be in a hurry to get back on the pitch.
It takes at least half an hour after the last flash before resuming play. According to some statistics, more than half of all lightning deaths occur after the storm “ends”.
Never seek cover under a tree in the field: lightning strikes taller objects.
Avoid contact with electrical and metal devices.
So you don’t have to go in the golf cart and stand under it. Sticks should not be touched but neither should the umbrella. Cell phones and metal networks should also be avoided.
If you are in an open area a long way from the clubhouse or other safe shelter, it is best to squat with your hands on your knees and your head bowed.
It is essential to minimize body contact with the ground.
Never lie down on the ground.
Never lean against concrete walls.
Stay away from bodies of water; look for an open and low area.
