Lewis River Little League 2014 Safety Manual and ASAP Plan
Lewis River Little League 2014 Safety Manual and ASAP Plan League ID #447-04- 15 7055 Green Mountain Road P.O. Box 905 Woodland, WA 98674 www.LewisRiverLL.com Lewis River Little League Objective To implant firmly in the youth of the community the ideals of good sportsmanship, loyalty, courage and respect for the authority, so that they may be well adjusted, stronger and happier children and grow up to be decent, healthy and trustworthy adults. Bearing in mind, that stressing exceptional athletic skills and winning the game is secondary. 1 2 Table of Contents Lewis River Little League Phone Numbers ................................................................................................ 5 League Safety Responsibility & Mission .................................................................................................... 6 Safety Code .............................................................................................................................................................. 7 Volunteer Requirements & Application .......................................................................................... 9 Clinics & Training Requirements ................................................................................................................11 Inclement Weather ............................................................................................................................................ 12 First Aid & First Aid Kit Check List ...............................................................................................................13 The P.R.I.C.E. System for Injuries ...............................................................................................................14 Communicable Disease & Concussion .......................................................................................................15 Hydration ............................................................................................................................................... 16 Accidents ..............................................................................................................................................................17 Conditioning & Stretching ................................................................................................................. 19 Facility Management ........................................................................................................................................ 20 Equipment & Equipment Checklist ............................................................................................................................................... 21 Pitch Count ........................................................................................................................................................... 23 Umpire Guidelines ................................................................................................................................................. 24 Coach Pre-Game Checklist .................................................................................................................................... 25 Concession Guidelines & Procedures ......................................................................................................... 27 3 4 LewisRiverLittleLeaguePhoneNumbers EMERGENCY Police&Fire......................................................................................................................................................................................................911 Non‐Emergency WoodlandPolice...............................................................................................................................................................(360)225‐6877 WoodlandFireDepartment.....................................................................................................................(360)225‐7076 WAStatePatrol....................................................................................................................................................(360)260‐6333 CowlitzSheriff...................................................................................................................................................(360)577‐3092 BoardofDirectors President:MattHill...................................................................................................................................................(360)225‐9005 VicePresident:BrianBorzone................................................................................................................................................(360)225‐6092 BaseballPlayerAgent:RickThrall......................................................................................................................(360)852‐0305 SoftballPlayerAgent:GessicaSilveria(Minor&Juniors).............................................................................(360)949‐9384 SoftballPlayerAgent:BrentEstep(CP&Major)..............................................................................................(360)518‐5910 Treasurer:LesaBeuscher.........................................................................................................................................(360)225‐8027 InformationOfficer:ArwynBorzone................................................................................................................(360)713‐2505 Uniforms&Equipment:JerryAndrews.............................................................................................................(360)263‐7397 SafetyOfficer:LelandFoster...............................................................................................................................(360)270‐3504 MemberatLarge:MarkCheuvront(FormerPresident)...........................................................................(360)448‐3761 Member:CindyVarley.........................................................................................................................................(360)772‐5452 Member:SherriMedley......................................................................................................................................(360)448‐3760 5 League Safety Responsibility and Mission The President of Lewis River Little League is responsible for ensuring that the policies and regulations of the Safety Officer, who is on file with Little League International, are carried out by the entire membership to the best of his or her abilities. The main responsibility of the Safety Officer is to develop and implement the League's safety program. The Safety Officer is the link between the Board of Directors of the Lewis River Little League its managers, coaches, umpires, players, spectators, and any other parties on the complex in regards to safety matters, rules and regulations. The Safety Officer may from time to time share the Little League International ASAP Program Newsletter. 6 Safety Code of Conduct The Board of Directors has implemented the following Safety Code of Conduct, All managers and coaches are required to read this Safety Code. This code was written to provide the safest possible environment for all. Safety procedures are the responsibility of every member of the Lewis River Little League. Direct contact with players shall be limited to only volunteers who have filled out a current Little League Volunteer form and have had a background check performed and approved by the Lewis River Little League. Each player, manager, coach, umpire shall use proper reasoning and care to prevent injury to him/her and to others. Only league approved managers and/or coaches are allowed to practice teams. Managers, designated coaches and umpires will have mandatory training in First Aid or hold a valid CPR first-aid card. First-aid kits are issued to each team manager with the equipment. Managers are required to have players medical release forms, safety manual and first-aid kit at all games, practices and any other event where the team members could become injured or hurt. No games or practices will be held when weather or field conditions are poor. Games and practices shall be stopped when inclement weather conditions occur, creating unsafe conditions, particularly lightning. (Reference page 20.) Prior to games and practices the managers/coaches/umpires shall inspect the dugouts and playing area for holes, damage, stones, glass and other foreign objects or unsafe conditions. Team equipment should be stored within the team dugout and not within the area defined by the umpires as "in play". Only players, managers, coaches and umpires are permitted on the playing field or in the dugout during games and practice sessions. Managers/Coaches are not allowed to catch pitchers (Rule 3.09); this includes standing at backstop during practice as informal catcher for batting practice. It is the manager's responsibility to keep bats and loose equipment off the field of play. Foul balls batted out of playing area should be returned to the dugouts. All pre-game warm-ups should be performed within the confines of the playing field. All equipment shall be inspected prior to each game and practice to insure it is in safe playing condition. Equipment should be checked for proper fit prior to use. 7 When conducting batting practice (including whiffle balls or soft toss), the batter must always have on an approved Little League batter helmet. If soft toss is conducted by another player, both players are required to wear approved helmets. When conducting infield or hitting fly balls the catcher is required to wear the proper catchers helmet with dangling throat guard. All catchers must wear a catcher's helmet with dangling throat guard, long model chest protector, shin guard, catcher’s mitt and protective cup (males only), all gear must meet Little League specifications and standards. Catchers must wear full catcher's gear when warming up a pitcher. Managers should encourage all male players to wear a protective cup and supporter at all times. Shoes with metal spikes or cleats are not permitted. Players will not wear watches, rings, pins, jewelry or other metallic items during practices or games. (Exception: Jewelry that alerts medical personnel to a specific condition is permissible and this must be taped in place.) Managers and coaches are never to leave any child unattended at a practice or game, NO EXCEPTIONS. Never hesitate to report any present or potential safety hazard to the league safety officer or a board member. Make arrangements to have a cellular phone available when a game or practice is at a facility that does not have public phones. No alcohol or drugs are allowed on the premises at any time. No medication will be taken at the facility unless administered directly by the child's parent or guardian. This includes aspirin and Tylenol. Players and spectators should be alert at all times for foul balls and errant throws. 8 Volunteer Requirements All volunteers are required to fill out the volunteer application and have background checks including Managers, Coaches, Umpires, Board of Director members, and any other persons, who provide regular service to the league and/or has repetitive access to, or contact with, players or teams in any way. Individuals are required to complete and submit a Little League Volunteer Application to the league. Background checks will be performed by the Safety Officer and reviewed by the League President and Vice President. No Exceptions. All Managers, Coaches and Umpires shall receive print copies of this Safety Manual ASAP Plan. All other volunteers shall be entitled to an electronic copy available on the league website or in print at the concession stand. The Volunteer Application may be obtained by copy the coping the next page of this booklet, from the Safety Officer, or online at: http://www.eteamz.com/lewisriverlittleleague/handouts/index.cfm?cat=212457 9 Little League Volunteer Application -2014 ® Do not use forms from past years. Use extra paper to complete if additional space is required. A COPY OF VALID GOVERNMENT ISSUED PHOTO IDENTIFICATION MUST BE ATTACHED TO COMPLETE THIS APPLICATION. Name___________________________________ Date____________________ Address_________________________________________________________ City_ ____________________________ State_ _________Zip______________ Social Security # (mandatory with First Advantage or upon request)________________ Cell Phone Business Phone E-mail Address: Date of Birth_____________________________________________________ Occupation_ _____________________________________________________ Employer________________________________________________________ Address_________________________________________________________ Special professional training, skills, hobbies:____________________________ _______________________________________________________________ Community affiliations (Clubs, Service Organizations, etc.): _______________________________________________________________ Previous volunteer experience (including baseball/softball and year): _______________________________________________________________ Do you have children in the program? Yes No If yes, list full name and what level?_ _____________________________________________________ Special Certification (CPR, Medical, etc.):_______________________________ Do you have a valid driver’s license: Yes No Driver’s License#:_ ________________________________State_ ___________ Have you ever been convicted of or plead guilty to any crime(s) involving or against a minor?: Yes No If yes, describe each in full:__________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ Are there any criminal charges pending against you regarding any crime(s) involving or against a minor? Yes No If yes, describe each in full:______________ __________________________________________________________________ Have you ever been refused participation in any other youth programs? Yes No If yes, explain:____________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ In which of the following would you like to participate? (Check one or more.) League Official Coach Umpire Field Maintenance Manager Scorekeeper Concession Stand Other Please list three references, at least one of which has knowledge of your participation as a volunteer in a youth program: Name/Phone ______________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________ AS A CONDITION OF VOLUNTEERING, I give permission for the Little League organization to conduct background check(s) on me now and as long as I continue to be active with the organization, which may include a review of sex offender registries (some of which contain name only searches which may result in a report being generated that may or may not be me), child abuse and criminal history records. I understand that, if appointed, my position is conditional upon the league receiving no inappropriate information on my background. I hereby release and agree to hold harmless from liability the local Little League, Little League Baseball, Incorporated, the officers, employees and volunteers thereof, or any other person or organization that may provide such information. I also understand that, regardless of previous appointments, Little League is not obligated to appoint me to a volunteer position. If appointed, I understand that, prior to the expiration of my term, I am subject to suspension by the President and removal by the Board of Directors for violation of Little League policies or principles. Applicant Signature_ _______________________________________ Date_ _________ If Minor/Parent Signature___________________________________Date __________ Applicant Name(please print or type)________________________________________ NOTE: The local Little League and Little League Baseball, Incorporated will not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, creed, color, national origin, marital status, gender, sexual orientation or disability. LOCAL LEAGUE USE ONLY: Background check completed by league officer ________________________________ on ____________________________________________________________________ System)s) used for background check (minimum of one must be checked): Sex Offender Registry Criminal History Records *First Advantage *Please be advised that if you use First Advantage and there is a name match in the few states where only name match searches can be performed you should notify volunteers that they will receive a letter directly from LexisNexis in compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act containing information regarding all the criminal records associated with the name, which may not necessarily be the league volunteer. Only attach to this application copies of background check reports that reveal convictions of this application. 1-02-11-VOLUNTEER APPLICATION 3/28/11 Clinics&TrainingRequirements ManagersandCoachesmandatoryclinicsarescheduledforFebruary8th,2013. ThefollowingisalistofclinicsthatarerequiredbytheLittleLeague: BasicFirstAidTraining‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐February8that3:30pm. FundamentalTraining,includinghitting,sliding,fielding,pitching,etc.‐‐‐‐‐‐‐February15th. JenSchroederLittleLeagueSoftballCoachesClinic‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐February22nd. 11 Inclement Weather Stop practices and games at the first sign of lightning and seek shelter immediately. Postpone activities if thunderstorms are imminent. Prior to an event, check the latest forecast and, when necessary, postpone activities early to avoid being caught in a dangerous situation. Stormy weather can endanger the lives of participants, staff, and spectators. Inclement weather includes these items: Rain If it begins to rain, it will be the manager’s decision to evaluate the situation. If the playing field becomes unsafe, play should be stopped. If playing a game, consult with the other manager and the umpire to make a decision to continue or not. Lightening If you can hear or see a thunderstorm play should be stopped. Children should stay away from metal including bug outs. The safest place is to have them go to their parents cars and wait out the storm. The average lightning strike is 5 to 6 miles long, keep this in mind if you see a storm approaching. All thunderstorms produce lightning and are dangerous. Many deaths from lightning occur because people wait too long to seek shelter, or because they go back outside too soon. Be sure to have a plan in place and seek appropriate shelter before disaster strikes. Hot Weather Managers should be aware of the temperature and take the necessary precautions to not put anyone at risk of dehydration. Have the children drink lots of water. Whether you are holding practice or a game, it's important to be aware of the dangers and signs of inclement weather and take appropriate action. 12 First Aid First-Aid is the first care given to a victim. It is usually performed by the first person on the scene and continued until professional medical help arrives, (9-1-1 paramedics). At no time should anyone administering First Aid go beyond his or her capabilities. First Aid training is required for coaches and managers, with at least one coach or manager from each team attending the annual meeting. First Aid training will qualify participants for three years. Due to their training and education, it is not necessary for licensed medical doctors, licensed registered nurses, licensed practical nurses and paramedics to attend league first aid training in order to meet the requirement. Other individuals who attend various outside first aid training and courses are not exempt. Each manager will be issued a Safety Manual and First Aid Kit at the beginning of the season. Who are required to have their First Aid kit, manual and parental consent forms at all games, practices and any other event where the team members could become injured or hurt. A First Aid kit and a Safety Manual will also be located at the concession stand and available at all times. The First Aid kit will have the necessary items to treat an injury until professional help arrives. A phone must be available at all practices and games for emergency usage. If in any doubt about the nature of an injury call 911. First Aid Kit Check List Ice bags Elastic bandages: 3, 4 and 6 inch widths Sterile dressings : 3 x 3 inch individual gauze; 2 or 3, 5 x 9 inch pads; Telfa or non-stick dressings Eye patches Adhesive bandages: ¾, 1 and 2 inch widths Bandages: triangular shape and in rolls Adhesive Tape: ½, 1 and 1 ½ inch widths Eye shields Small flashlight Scissors Antiseptic soap Splints: Inflatable, cardboard or wooden for arm and leg First aid cream Tweezers Disposable gloves Tylenol extra strength Petroleum jelly Safety pins First aid manual Towels Blanket Small pocket notebook and pencils Drinking water 13 The P.R.I.C.E. System for Injuries Even with the most diligent care, players are going to get hurt. Injuries to arms and legs, especially ankles, are common among players. Regular reviews of emergency procedures and injury care will help coaches and volunteers to be confident in their reactions. When an injury occurs, follow protocol to determine if emergency help should be called and provide the immediate care needed. Using the PRICE system for non-emergency injuries immediately and during the next 2-3 days, will help alleviate pain, control swelling, and protect the area from further injury. P Protect the injured area. First, stop playing. Remove the player from the field and avoid putting any weight on the injury. The use of padding, slings, braces, splints, elastic wraps, and/or crutches will help prevent additional injury. Protection can include removing rugs at home so the player's crutches can't catch on a loose edge. R Rest and allow the injury time to heal. Don't let the desire to play again override the need for rest. The player's body must have time to heal. If they injure the same area again, it can be a more severe injury and recovery time is often longer than the first time. I Ice the area for 20 minutes every 2-3 hours while awake. Protect the skin with a thin towel or t-shirt. An ice pack with crushed ice or a bag of frozen peas is best; they easily conform to the injury site and are more comfortable for the player. Some people are hypersensitive or allergic to ice. If the skin becomes red, raised, and blotchy — immediately remove the ice and allow the area to warm. C C o m p r e s s i o n i s u s e d t o m i n i m i z e swelling after the ice pack is removed. Most common compression wraps are the elastic or ace bandage. Use a wrap that is appropriate for the body part affected. A 2-inch wide bandage is ideal for an adult's wrist or hand, or a child's ankle. E Elevate the injured area above the heart to help slow and reduce swelling. Use a pillow or blanket to help with elevation of the injury. Your player should start the healing process in a day or two. However, if the pain and swelling does not decrease after 48 hours, seek treatment in accordance to the severity of symptoms — either a trip to emergency care or contact your health care provider. Once the swelling subsides, the player can start some gentle stretching, working up to the full motion of the injured joint or muscle. Use caution when stretching; do not force a stretch and stop immediately if there is pain. Have your player communicate with their family physician, a physical therapist, or an athletic trainer for direction on recovery time and rehabilitation of the injured area. Look for someone who is familiar with the type of injury suffered and follow their directions. Your player may recover quicker, with less pain and swelling, when you're following the PRICE system. 14 Communicable Disease 1. Bleeding must be stopped, the open wound covered, and the uniform changed if there is blood on it before the athlete may continue. 2. Routinely use gloves to prevent mucous membrane exposure when contact with blood or other body fluids is anticipated (provided in first-aid kit). 3. Immediately wash hands and other skin surface if contaminated with blood. 4. Clean all blood contaminated surfaces and equipment. 5. Managers, coaches, and volunteers with open wounds should refrain from all direct contact until the condition is resolved. 6. Follow accepted guidelines in the immediate control of bleeding and disposal when handling bloody dressings, mouth guards and other articles containing body fluids. Concussion A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head or by a hit to the body that causes your head and brain to move rapidly back and forth. This sudden movement can literally cause the brain to bounce around or twist in the skull, stretching and damaging brain cells and creating chemical changes in the brain. Sometimes these chemical chances make the brain more sensitive to any increased stress or injury until it is fully recovered. You cannot see a concussion. Coaches are the first line of defense. Since you cannot visually see a concussion it is important to know and be able to recognize different types of signs and symptoms. Including: Appearing dazed or stunned Is confused about assignment or position Forgets an instruction Is unsure of game, score or opponent Moves clumsily Can recall events prior to the incident or just after Headache, nausea or vomiting, vertigo, blurry vision, light or noise sensitivity, does not “feel right”. Response: Have player sit out and rest, contact parents, fill out an accident report. Call 911 if the person: Is vomiting repeatedly, has unequal pupils, is confused, has weakness on one side, passes out or is unconscious, is unable to wake up or has a seizure. 15 Hydration Staying hydrated at all times is a good idea, but it is especially important during the Little League season when heat and humidity combine for a double dehydration punch when at practices or games. Water makes up more than half of a person's body weight, helps maintain their temperature, removes wastes, and lubricates their joints. Every cell, tissue, and organ needs water to function properly. When players or spectators are dehydrated it can lead to real trouble — heat illness. Those who are not well-hydrated may experience an increase in body temperature. When that happens they can suffer from: Heat rash — a skin inflammation caused by excessive sweating during hot and humid weather. Heat cramps — painful muscle spasms in the arms, legs, or abdomen. Heat syncope — a sudden onset of dizziness or fainting. Heat exhaustion — a warning that the body is getting too hot and symptoms include thirst, giddiness, weakness, lack of coordination, nausea, or sweating profusely. Heat stroke — a fever that rapidly rises to dangerous level within minutes and is often fatal. Symptoms include confusion, combativeness, bizarre behavior, feeling faint, staggering, strong rapid pulse, dry flushed skin, and a lack of sweating. Death, delirium or, coma can be the result from heat stroke. Seek medical attention immediately if anyone shows these symptoms. As a coach, understand the symptoms of heat illness and be prepared to act quickly if one of your players starts to show any heat illness symptoms. You should: Get them out of the heat Rest in an air-conditioned building or shade if no building is available Have them drink plenty of water Apply cool water to the skin Contact the proper healthcare professional. If you suspect heat stroke contact 911 immediately and then follow the above recommendations while waiting for help to arrive. Follow these eight tips to help you and your players: 1. Keep drinks cold, this will help decrease body temperature quicker. 2. Stay away from carbonated drinks — carbonation can cause stomach distress. 3. Avoid caffeinated drinks. Caffeine is a diuretic and causes a loss of fluids from the body rather than replacing what was lost. 4. Drink either water or a sports drink that provide carbohydrates and electrolytes to help sustain your athlete's performance. 5. Drink 15 to 20 fluid ounces about 2-3 hours prior to a game or practice. 6. Drink 8-10 fluid ounces 10-20 minutes prior to a game or practice 7. During a game, drink 8-10 fluid ounces of cold fluids every 15 to 30 minutes. 8. During practice consume at least 24 ounces throughout a 2-hour time period Other things you can do to help prevent heat illness in your athletes is to make sure you take frequent breaks when heat and humidity are high, wear light weight, light-colored, and loose-fitting clothing; use sunscreen; take breaks in the shade, and stay away from hot food, heavy foods, and fried foods. If a child is thirsty they should always be allowed to have a drink. 16 Accidents What to report An incident that causes any player, manager, coach, umpire, or volunteer to receive medical treatment and/or first aid must be reported to the Lewis River Little League Safety Officer. It is the Leagues goal to prevent injuries to the best of its ability; therefore it is encouraged to report near misses as well as injuries. When to report All such incidents described above should be reported to the Safety Officer within 24 hours of the incident. How to make a report Reporting of accidents can be done by telephone or by filling out the proper accident report form. Accident report forms are available in the concession stand. Completed forms are to be put in the Safety Officers file in the concession stand. Please provide as much of the following information as possible. Including: The name and phone number of the individual involved. The date, time, and location of the incident. A detailed description of the incident. The name and phone number of the person reporting the incident. What to expect At the time of the Safety Officer’s notification of an accident he/she will call the injured player's parents or guardian to verify details of the accident. In the event the injured player required medical treatment (i.e. emergency room, Doctor visit, etc...) the safety officer will advise the parents or guardians of Lewis River Little League coverage and procedures for filing a claim. If the injury is deemed minor, a follow up call will be made to check on status of the injured player. If a player has an injury that requires medical attention, they must have a release form signed by a physician to play again. Safety Officer’s Responsibilities Within 48 hours of receiving the incident report, the Safety Officer will contact the injured party or the party’s parents and: 1. Verify the information received. 2. Obtain any other information deemed necessary. 3. Check on the status of the injured party. 4. In the event that the injured party required other medical treatment (i.e., Emergency Room visit, Doctor’s visit, etc.) will advise the parent or guardian of Little League’s insurance coverage’s and the provisions for submitting any claims. If the extent of the injuries are more than minor in nature, the Safety Officer shall periodically call the injured party to (1) check on the status of any injuries, and (2) to check if any other assistance is necessary in areas such as submission of insurance forms, etc. until such time as the incident is considered “closed”. 17 Sample Tracking Report Incident/Injury Tracking Report A Safety Awareness Program – Activities/Reporting League Name: ________________________________ League ID: ____ - ___ - ____ Incident Date: _____________ Field Name/Location: _____________________________________________________ Incident Time: ___________ Injured Person’s Name: __________________________________________ Date of Birth: _____________________ Address: _____________________________________________________ Age: ________ Sex: ❒ Male ❒ Female City: _____________________________State _________ ZIP: _________ Home Phone: ( ) _________________ Parent’s Name (If Player): ________________________________________ Work Phone: ( ) _________________ Parents’ Address (If Different): _____________________________________ City _____________________________ Incident occurred while participating in: A) ❒ Baseball ❒ Softball ❒ Challenger ❒ TAD B) ❒ Challenger ❒ T-Ball (5-8) ❒ Minor (7-12) ❒ Major (9-12) ❒ Senior (13-15) ❒ Junior (13) ❒ Sr./Minor (13-15) ❒ Big League (16-18) C) ❒ Tryout ❒ Travel to ❒ Practice ❒ Game❒ Tournament ❒ Special Event ❒ Travel from ❒ Other (Describe): ________________________________________ Position/Role of person(s) involved in incident: D) ❒ Batter ❒ Baserunner ❒ Pitcher ❒ Catcher ❒ First Base ❒ Second ❒ Third ❒ Short Stop ❒ Left Field ❒ Center Field ❒ Right Field ❒ Dugout ❒ Umpire ❒ Coach/Manager ❒ Spectator ❒ Volunteer ❒ Other : __________________ Type of injury: __________________________________________________________________________________ Was first aid required? ❒ Yes ❒ No If yes, what:___________________________________________________ If yes, what: ______________________________ Was professional medical treatment required? ❒ Yes ❒ No (If yes, the player must present a non-restrictive medical release prior to to being allowed in a game or practice.) Type of incident and location: A) On Primary Playing Field B) Adjacent to Playing Field ❒ Base Path: ❒ Running or ❒ Sliding ❒ Seating Area ❒ Hit by Ball: ❒ Pitched or ❒ Thrown or ❒ Batted ❒ Parking Area ❒ Collision with: ❒ Player or ❒ Structure C) Concession Area ❒ Grounds Defect ❒ Volunteer Worker ❒ Other: ____________________________________ ❒ Customer/Bystander D) Off Ball Field ❒ Travel: ❒ Car or ❒ Bike or ❒ Walking ❒ League Activity ❒ Other: ________ Please give a short description of incident: _________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________ Could this accident have been avoided? How:_______________________________________________________ This form is for Little League purposes only, to report safety hazards, unsafe practices and/or to contribute positive ideas in order to improve league safety. When an accident occurs, obtain as much information as possible. For all claims or injuries which could become claims, please fill out and turn in the official Little League Baseball Accident Notification Form available from your league president and send to Little League Headquarters in Williamsport (Attention: Dan Kirby, Risk Management Department). Also, provide your District Safety Officer with a copy for District files. All personal injuries should be reported to Williamsport as soon as possible. Prepared By/Position: _____________________________________ Phone Number: __________________________ Signature: ______________________________________________ Date:____________________________________ Conditioning & Stretching Baseball is a dynamic sport and your players will benefit from following a dynamic warm-up plan in order to prevent accidents from occurring. The tips below will help you make the right plan. Get Your Body Going Dynamic Warm ups get a body going — increasing the heart rate, blood flow and oxygen to the muscles. Players use their muscles in groups and the dynamic approach gets those muscles working together. If you want to be prepared to play, move. If you are lying down on the field stretching, you are not maximizing you’re warm up. Do not start with a Stretch! Not what you would expect for a warm up, right? Stretching shouldn't be done when muscles are cold. Think of a nice hot, cheesy pizza. When you take a slice, you expect the cheese to be all stretchy. Muscles are like that — when they're nice and warmed up, they'll stretch. The next day, that same pizza stashed in the fridge overnight, does not have stretchy cheese. If you try to stretch cold muscles, you could end up with an injury before you even start. Run with your Glove A good place to begin is to have the players run the bases with their gloves on at a gradual pace. This gives them practice using their hands properly and running with a glove. Take advantage of this time and get them practicing fundamentals like properly rounding the bases, looking at the third base coach, and sneaking a peak. Making each activity work to your advantage by including these little things will add up to a better-prepared player. What's Next? The key to dynamic training is warming up muscles in groups. Look for activities that combine walking with kicking, lunging, and stretching. There are many online websites including Little League that offer demonstration videos and articles demonstrating proper technique for high knees, lateral side skips, toe pulls, and jog outs. Incorporating activities like Frankenstein, Tapioca, Inch Worm, and Superhero can make warming up fun. If you don't recognize these exercises Google them for photos and examples. Loose as a Goose Take about 15-20 minutes for a good warm up, and move from activities that get the heart rate and core temperature increased, to activities that stretch the warmed up muscles. Once your players are warmed up and stretched out give them a chance to stretch out any specific areas that feel tight, like hamstrings or shoulders. One of the best ways to avoid injury is to have player warmed up and flexible - allowing the joint to move through its range of motion. 19 Facility Management and Field Operating Procedures It is important to inspect the fields and viewing areas before using them. If you notice issues please let the leagues Safety Officer or Field Maintenance Officer know as soon as possible. Before practice or a game take a quick look at the following items to ensure safety: Bleachers Bases Dugouts Fence Lines Outfield Infield All managers, coaches, or other approved volunteers who have keys to outbuildings are responsible for proper use and storage of all league equipment, hazardous materials, fertilizers, poisons, tools, etc. All storage sheds should be locked at all times. All equipment must be returned to its original place. Check oil and fuel before and after each use. 20 Equipment The Equipment Manager is an elected board member and is responsible for purchasing and distributing equipment to the teams. All league equipment is examined prior to being issued but it is the team Manager’s responsibility to maintain it. At the beginning of the season and at least once more throughout the year time should be set aside to inspect league and player equipment to ensure they are in proper safety condition. Any damaged league equipment should be taken to the equipment manager for replacement and should not be used. Children using their own gear should have it checked to make sure that it meets the requirements of the Official Little League Rule Book. Helmets are not to have any stickers, paint, or foreign substances on them other than what the manufacture has equipped it with or given written permission to do so. At the end of the season, all equipment must be returned to the Equipment Manager. First Aid kits are Safety Manuals must also be returned with equipment. Baseball/Softball Glove One of the most common equipment issues with the glove revolve around the laces coming untied. When a lace comes lose it's just a matter of time before the glove breaks down while an athlete is fielding a ground ball, or worse a line drive. Examine each players glove and keep the laces snug by tightening them like they were when the glove was originally purchased. Batting Helmets Arguably the most essential piece of safety equipment for all players is batting helmets. Set aside time to inspect all helmets used by your team or league. Carefully run a hand over the entire surface to feel for cracks or dents that could weaken the stability of the helmet. Also, scan through the padding inside the helmet to make sure that it is properly secured and has not unfastened in any way. Bats While looking for hazardous physical blemishes on bats, double check each bat to make sure that it's not a part of the recent bat moratorium at: http://www.littleleague.org/learn/equipment.htm. Similar to batting helmets, make sure to check for cracks and dents that might have developed since the start of the season. Also, check the grip for tearing or aesthetic issues. Catchers Gear Inspect all gear for cracks and dents that could cause serious performance and safety issues. Additionally, look at all straps and snaps to ensure that they're performing properly and replace if necessary. Verify that the throat protector is tightly fastened on the mask and that the padding inside is secure and functioning properly. Cleats Visually inspect for glaring deformities, confirming that all spikes are still them and that shoelaces are not frayed or torn. Observe the shoe sole to make sure that it's intact and is not peeling away. Finally, check the cleat sole and the tongue of the cleat to make certain that it has not depreciated to the point that it is a safety or performance issue. 21 Equipment Checklist Keep Your Players Safer safety on the field? Do you know which optional items can help keep players safer? Check out the following list for ideas and reminders. REQUIRED PLAYER EQUIPMENT Defense ❑ Athletic supporter – all male players ❑ Metal, fiber, or plastic type cup – all male catchers ❑ Catcher’s helmet and mask, with “dangling” throat guard; NO skull caps – all catchers; must be worn during pitcher warm-up, infield practice, while batter is in box ❑ Catcher’s mitt – all baseball catchers ❑ Chest protector and leg protectors – all catchers; must be worn while batter is in box; long model chest protector required for Little League (Majors) and younger catchers Offense ❑ Helmet meeting NOCSAE standards – all batters, base runners, and players in coaches boxes ❑ Helmet chinstrap – all helmets made to have chinstrap (with snap buttons, etc.) ❑ Regulation-sized ball for the game and division being played; marked RS for regular season or RS-T for regular season and tournament in baseball ❑ Regulation-sized bat – all batters; Little League (Majors) and younger baseball divisions must have bat marked with BPF 1.15 beginning in 2009 ❑ Non-wood bats must have a grip of cork, tape, or composite material, and must extend a minimum of 10 inches from the small end. Slippery tape is prohibited. REQUIRED FIELD EQUIPMENT ❑ 1st, 2nd and 3rd bases that disengage from their anchors ❑ Pitcher’s plate and home plate ❑ Players’ benches behind protective fences ❑ Protective backstop and sideline fences OPTIONAL PLAYER EQUIPMENT Defense ❑ Metal, fiber, or plastic type cup – any player, esp. infielders ❑ Pelvic protector – any female, esp. catchers ❑ Heart Guard/XO Heart Shield/Female Rib Guard – any defensive player, esp. pitchers, infielders ❑ Game-Face Safety Mask – any player, esp. infielders ❑ Goggles/shatterproof glasses – any player, esp. infielders or those with vision limitations Offense ❑ Helmet – adults in coaches boxes ❑ Helmet with Face Guards or C-Flap meeting NOCSAE standards – all batters, esp. in younger divisions ❑ Mouth guard – batters, defensive players ❑ Goggles/Shatterproof glasses – any player, esp. those with vision limitations ❑ Batters vest/Heart Guard/Heart Shield/Female Rib Guard – any batter ❑ Regulation-sized reduced impact ball OPTIONAL FIELD EQUIPMENT ❑ Double 1st base that disengages from its anchor ❑ Baseball mound for pitcher’s plate ❑ Portable pitchers baseball mound with pitcher’s plate ❑ Protective/padded cover for fence tops ❑ Foul ball return in backstop fencing IMPORTANT: Do you know what equipment is required for player BPF RULE GOES INTO EFFECT FOR BASEBALL DIVISIONS Buying bats for your league’s baseball divisions? If it is composite metal, make sure it has the BPF 1.15 label. Bats in use in Little League Baseball (Majors Division and younger) must have the new bat performance factor listed on the bat. Unless this marking is present, the bat will be removed from games. Little League officials are aware some bats do not have the required markings but are Little League approved. And some of the bats on the approved bat list may not carry the required BPF 1.15 marking, depending on when they were manufactured and licensed. Little League is building a list of bats that are approved but do not have the BPF marking due to special circumstances. For these bats, the eligibility for play will be extended until December 31, 2009. As Little League is made aware of bats that meet the BPF rule for this extension, the bats will be added to the list. ONLY bats with a BPF 1.15 marking or that are listed below will be allowed for use in the Little League (Majors) Baseball and younger divisions in 2009. Non-BPF-marked bats approved until Dec. 31, 2009: Adidas – Vanquish (blue design) A newer model of this bat, also named Vanquish with copper and black markings, has the proper labeling, so is therefore not subject to the one-year rule. DeMarini – Black Coyote, Rogue, Distance, Rumble, Tengu, Mach 10, Patriot Easton – LZ-810, LZ-800, Stealth Optiflex LST 1, Louisville Slugger – YB31 NIKE – Areo Spring 2009 5 Pitch Count Pitch count does matter. Little League regulations have been adopted. Managers and coaches need to take time to review the publication at: http://www.littleleague.org/Assets/forms_pubs/PitchCount_faq_08.pdf For overhanded pitchers: 1. Studies have demonstrated that curveballs cause most problems at the inside of the elbow. 2. Sidearm delivery leads to a large increase of injuries more so than with a vertical delivery. 3. Pitchers who limit their pitching to fastballs and change-ups have a lower rate of injury. Children should not be encouraged to “play through pain”. Pain is a warning signal of an injury, ignoring it can lead to greater injury. 23 8 January-February 2004 During the Game — Umpires and Coaches • Encourage coaches to help speed play by having catchers and players on the bench prepared and ready to take the field with two outs • Make sure catchers are wearing the proper safety equipment • Continually monitor the field for safety and playability • Pitchers warming up in foul territory must have a spotter and catcher with full equipment • Keep game moving — one minute or eight pitches to warm up the pitcher between innings or in case of mid-inning replacement • Make calls loud and clear, signalling each properly • Umpires should be in position to make the call • No protesting of any judgment calls by the umpire • Managers are responsible for keeping their fans and players on their best behavior • Encourage everyone to think “Safety First!” Before the Game — Meet at home plate • Introduce plate and base umpires, managers/coaches • Receive official lineup cards from each team • Discuss any local playing rules (time limit, playing boundaries, etc.) • Discuss the strike zone • Discuss unsportsmanlike conduct by the players • Discuss the innings pitched by a pitcher rule • Clarify calling the game due to weather or darkness • Inspect playing field for unsafe conditions • Discuss legal pitching motions or balks, if needed • Discuss no head-first slides, no on-deck circle rules • Get two game balls from home team • Be sure players are not wearing any jewelry • Be sure players are in uniform (shirts in, hats on) • Inspect equipment for damage and to meet regulations • Ensure that games start promptly Copy and provide to umpires for reference. N o r t h I ssaq u a h , Wa s h i n g t o n , Li t t l e Le a gue Umpire Guidelines 26 Concession Guidelines and Procedures 1. Health Cards One person with a valid health card must always be in direct supervision fo the concession stand operation. 2. Hand Washing Since the League concession stand does not have running water there is a hand washing station set up. Before the beginning of each shift and periodically throughout the shift all workers will wash their hands. Frequent and thorough hand washing remains the first line of defense in preventing food borne disease. The use of disposable gloves can provide an additional barrier to contamination, but they are no substitute for hand washing. 3. Cooking and Reheating Use a food thermometer to check on cooking and holding temperatures of potentially hazardous foods. All potentially hazardous foods should be kept at 41* F or below (if cold) or 140* F or above (if hot). Ground beef and ground pork products should be cooked to an internal temperature of 155* F, poultry parts should be cooked to 165*F. Most food borne illnesses from temporary events can be traced back to lapses in temperature control. Rapidly reheat potentially hazardous foods to 165* F. Do not attempt to heat foods in crock pots, steam tables, over sterno units or other devices. Slow cooking mechanisms may activate bacteria and never reach killing temperatures. Reheating Temperatures Hot dogs 140*F Cheese & Chili 160*F Others 165* 4. Cooling and Cold storage Foods that require refrigeration must be cooled to 41* F as quickly as possible and held at that temperature until ready to serve. To cool foods down quickly, use an ice water bath (60% ice to 40% water), stirring the product frequently, or place the food in shallow no more than 4 inches in depth and refrigerate. 5. Health and Hygiene Only healthy workers shall prepare and serve food. Anyone who shows symptoms of disease (cramps, nausea, fever, vomiting, diarrhea, jaundice, etc.) or who has open sores or infected cuts on the hands shall not be allowed in the food concession area. Workers will wear clean outer garments and shall not smoke in the concession area. 6. Food Handling Avoid hand contact with raw, ready to eat foods and food contact surfaces. Use an acceptable dispensing utensil to serve food. Touching food with bare hands is not acceptable as this can transfer germs to food. 7. Ice Ice used to cool cans/bottles shall not be used in cup beverages and should be stored 27 separately. Use a scoop to dispense ice; never use your hands. 8. Wiping Cloths Rinse and store wiping cloths in a bucket of sanitizer (1 gallon of water and ½ teaspoon of chlorine bleach). Change the solution every two hours. 9. Insect Control and Waste Keep foods covered to protect them from insects. Place garbage and paper in a refuse container with a tight fitting lid. Dispose of waste water in an approved method (do not dump it outside). All water used should be potable water from an approved source. 10. Food Storage and Cleanliness Keep food stored off the floor at least six inches. After your event is finished, clean the concession area and discard unusable food. 11. Minimum Worker Age The minimum age for workers in the concession stand shall be 18 years of age; due to the potential hazards of the various equipment. 12. Equipment Equipment should be checked periodically and repaired or placed if needed. 13. Food Food not purchased by Lewis River Little League will not be cooked, prepared, or sold in the concession stand. 14. Safety A certified fire extinguisher suitable for grease fires must be placed in plain sight at all times. A First Aid kit will be located in the concession stand at all times. It should be inventoried at the beginning of each season. 28
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