Safety Guidelines

When involved in any athletic event, an injury can occur, especially in a physically demanding sport such as track and field. The information presented is to inform the athlete of proper technique and inherent dangers involved with training and competition. Not all potential injury possibilities in track and field are listed, but athletes should be aware that fundamentals, coaching, and proper equipment are important to the safety and enjoyment of running.

1. Proper warm-up is essential before strenuous activity takes place.

2. Travel to and from off-campus for practice/contests should take place only in district transportation and/or under the coach's supervision or approval.

3. Run only on the course as indicated by the coach.

4. In case of emergency on a run, contact the coach or school.

5. If assistance is not available, stay on the course described for workout.

6. Beware of objects being thrown from passing cars and from car doors opening from parked cars. Ignore verbal harassment.

7. Run in pairs. Girls should NEVER run alone. In group runs have someone drop back with anyone who is having a problem staying with the group.

8. Beware of dogs. Report any aggressive animals to the coach.

9. Know how to behave if encountering a bear or cougar. Stay tall and wide. Make strong, loud noise. Back away slowly. Do not turn your back to the animal.

10. Runners should be familiar with basic first aid treatment for sprained ankles and other running related injuries. Report all injuries and problems to the coach.

11. When running on roads, always face the oncoming traffic. Be cautious at intersections and be aware of erratic drivers. Do not impede traffic by running two or more abreast.

12. Do not enter into or take short cuts through private property.

13. Do not wear headsets while running.

14. Wear reflective material if running before dawn or after dark.

15. When running in woods on trails, watch your footing.

16. Check out with the coach at the end of practice.

Injuries

Unfortunately, injuries do occur. Athletes must inform their coaches immediately if they think they are injured. Do this even for blisters. Don't allow a minor problem to build into a major one.