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Risk Alerts
Sports activities require safety first
While both victory and the 'agony of defeat' teach student athletes important lessons, it is the agony of serious injury that should concern coaches and administrators most.
PACE has compiled best practices to help limit districts' exposure for injury to athletes and spectators during sporting events. Complying with best practices can't keep every injury from happening, but it does help limit the damages.
First, supervise activities at all times. Lack of supervision is cited in nearly every sports-related injury, according to Frank Stratton, PACE program manager. If supervision is not available for a practice session, cancel practice.
Know and follow district policies and procedures and rules and regulations of the OSAA.
Guidelines for districts:
- Create and enforce a policy that states the duty to provide a safe environment for students.
- Check facilities regularly to maintain a safe playing environment.
- Test all equipment before use and implement a regular equipment maintenance program that includes inspection and repair procedures.
- Implement a training program that includes conditioning, nutrition, exercise and drills to prepare students for their sport.
- Establish a medical procedure for coaches and student athletes. Coaches need sufficient first-aid training, and physical examinations should be required for all participants as a condition of registration.
- Have meetings with students, parents and guardians to explain what is expected of participants.
- Require participants and parents to sign a consent form.
- Design a standard injury report process for coaches and students that can be used in all athletic programs. These reports can help determine trends with specific coaches, pieces of equipment or activities.
- Most important: Provide adequate supervision for all activities.
Call PACE with questions about sports safety and liability, 503-371-8667, or 800-285-5461, or to arrange a visit from a PACE loss-control consultant.