Safety is extremely important at the Chatham Granite Club. Curlers are encouraged to use proper equipment including footwear and headgear that will minimize the chance of injury.
Concussions
Should any participant hit their head in a fall, 911 must be called and an evaluation conducted by Emergency Medical Services personnel. The parent or guardian will be notified if the participant is a minor. A ride home will be arranged if the participant is alone. An incident form must be completed and provided to the Club Administrator.
Curlers under the age of 26 must comply with Rowan’s Law regarding concussions. Rowan’s Law makes it mandatory for sports organizations to ensure that athletes under 26 years of age, parents of athletes under 18, coaches, team trainers and officials confirm every year that they have reviewed Ontario’s Concussion Awareness Resources. It’s the law!
Entering and Leaving the Ice Surface
One of the most hazardous moves is stepping on and off the ice, when slipping and falling can occur. If you wear a slider on one foot, ensure that foot is the last on and the first off the ice. Use your broom or stick for added support if possible. Test the ice at the beginning of a game for slipperiness, which can change from club to club or even game to game. During the game, keep your weight forward over the front of your feet to the extent possible.
Clothing and Equipment
Wear comfortable clothing that provides a full range of movement. Gloves will keep hands warm as well as prevent blisters from sweeping. There are a number of headgear options now available that will cushion the blow in case of a fall. When using new equipment, take time to become familiar with it and gain confidence and stability. Utilize stabilizers or push sticks to increase stability and match the physical demands to your individual comfort.
Surroundings and Play
Be aware of your surroundings, the ice surface can be very busy with people moving about and rocks sometimes coming from other sheets of ice. When sweeping, do not try to keep up with fast moving rocks if it will cause you to lose your balance or run into stationary rocks. When in the house, be aware of all stationary rocks to avoid tripping hazards. Do not “set up” rocks as a courtesy to the next opposing team player, as that is a tripping hazard. Use your broom to stop moving rocks, not your feet or hands.
Play Sober
Refreshments after or between games is a traditional part of curling. However, unsteadiness on the ice surface can result in unfortunate outcomes. Please drink responsibly and enjoy the game to its fullest!
