PlaySport - Safety Guidelines

Creating a Safe Environment

An important aspect to remember is that there is an element of risk in all physical activity. It is
imperative to take action accordingly to minimize the risk. Safety awareness practiced by the
leader, based on up-to-date information/resources (e.g., Safety Guidelines), common sense
observation, action and foresight, is the key to safe programming.
Here are some general safety guidelines that should be addressed while using PlaySport:

1. Activity Type:

- Select a Category 2. Select Activity:

None

Advanced Search

Leaders need to be aware of the medical background and physical limitations of

children.
Leaders must be knowledgeable and trained to carry out their duties.
A fully stocked first aid kit must be readily accessible.
Leader must make a pre-activity check of the facilities and equipment to be used. (The
playing field must be free from hazards, leaders must ensure equipment is safe and
balls are properly inflated).
Possible risks of the activity must be outlined, demonstration on how to minimize the
risks must occur, and procedures and rules for safe play must be implemented prior to
the activity beginning.
Players must wear appropriate clothing. Running shoes or appropriate footwear must
be a minimum requirement.
Walls must not be used for turning points or finish lines. A line or pylons should be
designated in advance of the wall.
No body contact.
Activities must be modified to the age and ability levels of the players and the facility
available.
The number of players must be suitable to the playing area.
Effective supervision must be in place in order for children to use facilities or
equipment.

Resources for Educators

It is strongly recommended that educators use the Ophea (Ontario Physical and Health
Education Association) Physical Education Safety Guidelines, prior to starting any activity. For
more information visit www.Ophea.net or E-mail: safety@ophea.net
Considering Students with Asthma when Planning Physical Activity
Asthma is described as a chronic inflammatory condition that occurs in the smaller airway of the lungs. When in
the presence of asthma triggers the airways react by narrowing or obstructing which can make breathing difficult.
If not treated properly, this can cause death.
Asthma is easier to manage if asthma triggers are eliminated. Triggers often bring on asthma attacks. A trigger is
any thing or condition that causes inflammation in the airways, which then leads to asthma symptoms. Asthma
triggers are NOT the same for each individual person. But in every case, it's important that people with asthma
avoid their triggers in order to keep airway inflammation to a minimum and reduce asthma symptoms.
When individuals participate in physical activity, they commonly breathe through their mouths at a rapid rate,
which causes cooling and drying of the sensitive airway for those who have asthma. This cooling and drying
effect causes the airway to narrow resulting in asthma symptoms. As a result, physical activity is considered a
trigger for some people with asthma, however, it is important to note that physical activity is not a trigger for all
individuals who have asthma. For individuals with well-controlled asthma, exercise should pose little, if any,
http://www.ophea.net/Ophea/PlaySport/safetyguidelines.cfm (1 of 2)9/27/2006 12:53:09 PM

PlaySport - Safety Guidelines

difficulty. If an individual has exercise limitations, such as an inability to exercise as well as his/her peers due to
the development of a cough, wheeze or shortness of breath, this could be a sign of uncontrolled asthma and a
trip to the family physician is required.
There are two types of asthma medication and it is important to know the difference.

Controllers, also referred to as preventors prevent the airway inflammation. Controllers are
generally taken at home, not given by school staff. There are some children who take higher
doses and occasionally may have to take their controller/preventor at school. Controllers are
NOT to be used for quick relief of symptoms.
Relievers, also referred to as rescue medication: opens the airway quickly, usually
contained in a blue inhaler, prescribed only when needed, often prescribed 10-30 minutes
before exercise to be taken right away when symptoms appear. If you observe the student
using the reliever more than 3 times a week (other than before exercise) or requiring the
reliever medication more than every 4 hours inform the parent(s)/caregiver(s) immediately.
For general information about asthma you can contact the following organizations:
The Asthma Society of Canada toll free at 1-866-787-4050 or visit www.asthma.ca and www.
asthma-kids.ca.
The Canadian Lung Association toll free at 1-800-972-2636 (Asthma Action Hot-line 1-800668-7682) or visit www.lung.ca
The Canadian Health Network www.canadian-health-network.ca

Disclaimer

http://www.ophea.net/Ophea/PlaySport/safetyguidelines.cfm (2 of 2)9/27/2006 12:53:09 PM