Section 8: Safety Considerations
8.1 Ice Surface Safety
- Footwear: All players and officials must wear clean, appropriate curling footwear. Slider guards must be worn when not delivering to prevent accidental falls.
- No running: Running on the ice surface is strictly prohibited. Players must walk carefully, especially when moving between ends.
- Awareness of moving stones: All personnel on the ice must remain aware of stones in motion. A moving 19 kg granite stone can cause serious injury to feet, ankles, and shins.
8.2 Equipment Safety
- Brooms: Brooms must not be thrown, slammed, or used in any manner that could damage the ice surface or endanger other players.
- Stones: Players must not drop or kick stones. Stones should be placed gently on the ice when being positioned.
- Stabiliser devices: Players using delivery sticks or stabiliser aids must ensure they are in good condition and do not leave debris on the ice.
8.3 Facility and Environmental Safety
- Ice maintenance: The ice surface must be properly maintained between games, including re-pebbling and temperature monitoring. Deteriorated ice with excessive frost, uneven pebble, or pooling water must be addressed before play resumes.
- Ventilation: Curling facilities must maintain adequate ventilation. Ice-making equipment that uses ammonia or other refrigerants must comply with local safety regulations.
- Emergency access: Clear pathways to exits must be maintained. First aid equipment and trained personnel should be available at all sanctioned events.
- Cold exposure: Players should dress in layers appropriate for extended periods in sub-zero temperatures. Facilities should monitor for signs of hypothermia or cold-related illness during extended competitions.
8.4 Warm-Up and Physical Preparation
Players should perform appropriate warm-up exercises before taking the ice, particularly for the lower body, core, and shoulders. The deep lunge required for stone delivery places significant strain on the hips, knees, and quadriceps. Stretching and mobility work helps prevent injury over the course of a multi-game event.