Here are a few safety rules to keep yourself and others safe on the ice:
Ice Safety Tips
- NEVER RUN ON THE ICE SURFACE
- Walk onto the ice surface and stand still for 10-15 seconds to let your warm shoes cool off. Your warm shoes will melt the ice at first, once they cool off you will have more grip on the ice surface
- Keep your hands out of your pockets in the event you slip or fall. Wear gloves or mitts instead.
- Keep your body weight on the balls of your feet, like you are skiing or skating. Avoid rocking on your heels to prevent slips or falls.
- Be aware of your surroundings, and wait until other people on your sheet are watching you deliver a rock.
- Warn people if rocks may run into them to prevent slips and falls on the ice.
- Helmets or safety head gear are strongly recommended.
Rock Safety Tips
- NEVER PICK UP A CURLING ROCK. Each rock weighs approximately 43 pounds (20kg)
- You may move rocks by using your hands, feet or broom.
- Only throw (slide) rocks in one direction to prevent damage. This will also prevent risk of injury to yourself or others.
- If a rock starts to go into another sheet (lane) of ice, stop it and bring it back to your sheet.
- Always have one person at the far end of the ice to catch rocks and prevent them from hitting the hacks (starting blocks), back wall, or people. There is never a reason to throw a rock so hard that it could cause damage.
Slider and Broom Tips
- You may use your broom to help you stand up after delivering a rock
- Step-on sliders are only for throwing a rock. After you have thrown a rock, kick the slider out so you have two grip feet to stand up; immediately pick up the slider to reduce risk of slips and falls.
- Do not use sliders sweeping rocks
- Do not leave sliders unattended on the ice surface, this is a safety hazard that could lead to serious slips or falls.
Anyone observed behaving in an unsafe manner or showing disrespect towards other curlers and/or staff will result in either the individual or entire group being asked to leave without refund for any un-used time.
Have fun and play safe!
