RESOURCES

Safety Tips

Ask parents to complete a medical information form for each player prior to the season starting so that as the coach you are informed of any medical conditions a player has and how to treat it if necessary (i.e. asthma, allergies, etc). Keep each player’s medical information form in a sealed envelope in the medicine kit.
As a coach you should be CPR certified. Otherwise, ensure a person certified in CPR and first aid is present at all Learn to Play softball sessions.
Ensure you have all players emergency contact information and access to a phone in case of emergency.

Complete an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) for each field where you will be playing so that if something should happen, you will know what to do. A downloadable EAP can be found at www.softball.ca.
Check the field prior to each session to ensure the field is clear of any garbage or debris including that there are no holes in the infield or outfield.
If possible, any surrounding fences, walls and posts should be padded to prevent injury if a player runs into them when attempting to catch a ball.

Ensure children use proper safety gear including: batting helmets, catcher’s gear, and RAWLINGS Reduced Injury Factor (RIF) or NC12S/NC11S softballs for the Learn to Play softball program.
Encourage players to wear cleats to reduce slips and falls if they have access to them, if not good running shoes are appropriate.
Inspect playing equipment regularly to make sure it is in good condition.
Leagues are encouraged to use carpet bases for Learn to Play softball.

Ensure a proper warm-up and cool-down is conducted before and after playing. Warm up activities are included in the manual to help get players ready to participate.
Educate players of proper stretching and strengthening techniques.

To prevent injury, make sure the children learn proper throwing and batting techniques.
Always reinforce the children to check their surroundings before swinging a bat.
Educate players to never walk up behind someone holding a bat without letting them know you are there.

Children should not play if they are experiencing persistent pain and loss of motion.
Keep players hydrated for all activities by providing water before, during and after the activity. Encourage players to bring their own water bottle each session.
Avoid caffeinated drinks because they further dehydrate the body.
Ensure children wear sunscreen with a SPF of 30 or higher that is sweat and water-resistant and should be reapplied every two hours.