SAFETY of our curlers is always our primary concern, with too many on-ice falls, often with serious consequences. Injuries and injury prevention continue to be major topics for our members and the 50+ Executive.
Therefore, we have decided to promote awareness through highlighting preventative measures all curlers should take to reduce the risk of falls resulting in serious injury.
The 50+ Member Safety REBATES are in effect for qualified purchases of grippers, shoes and helmets from the SACC Pro Shop until our $500 (annual) limit in total rebates has been claimed; so get yours while it lasts! (See details below)
We have gathered some suggestions, which may help reduce your risk for serious injuries:
- Do warm-up activities prior to each game i.e. leg swings back and forth and side ways. Limit these activities to your ability.
- Wear head protection. Helmets are best insurance against serious head injuries in a fall. Curling Canada suggests head protection approved for snow sports is also good for curling. We discourage the use of pointed bicycle helmets. Other padded headwear should have a chinstrap.
- Fall prevention begins with your feet!
- Check your equipment & replace grippers regularly as they do deteriorate over time.
- Consider retiring your slider in favour of 2 grippers for sweeping and for skips in the house. Practice may be required if you currently use a slider as it will take some time to adjust. Please ask for help or a demonstration.
- Step onto the ice with your gripper foot. Be aware it takes a few moments for your grippers to cool off when first on the ice. Warm grippers can be slippery.
- Keep two (2) feet under your body after delivering your rock when using a slider.
- Ensure clothing and shoes fit properly.
- Limit activity to your ability.
- Stay focused - be aware of your surroundings.
- Never turn your back to a moving rock.
- Remain outside the Hog Line when your opposition is delivering their rocks and do not crowd the backboards.
- Do not run on the ice. Move deliberately - no quick turns.
- Think about the safety of your teammates and opponents - for the heavy hitters - consider dialing back on the speed of your take-outs.
- Keep curling stones in single file. It is no longer a ‘courtesy’ to bring your opponents’ rocks out for them.. it is a potential tripping hazard.
- Keep the backboard area clear of brooms, sticks, bags, grippers, etc.
- Always be alert and know where the hack and rocks are when you are moving around the house.
We cannot over-emphasize the need to remain diligent while on the ice, and still enjoy the sport.
So, think SAFETY FIRST - stay FOCUSED - and HAVE FUN!
