Section 8: Safety Considerations
Ball Pressure and Condition
- Ensure the ball is properly inflated before play. An over-inflated ball bounces too high and can cause hand and wrist injuries. An under-inflated ball is unpredictable and leads to frustration
- Inspect the ball for cracks, tears, or surface damage before each session. A damaged ball may bounce erratically or burst during play
- Replace balls that have become excessively hard or lost their rubber coating
- Use age-appropriate ball sizes: smaller, softer balls for younger players (under 8)
Surface Hazards
- Inspect the playing surface for cracks, holes, raised edges, wet patches, loose gravel, or debris before play
- Wet surfaces are slippery and significantly increase the risk of falls. Do not play on wet concrete or asphalt
- Indoor gymnasium floors should be clean, dry, and free of dust or wax buildup
- Ensure the court is level. Uneven surfaces cause unpredictable bounces and trip hazards
- Remove any sharp objects, glass, or stones from the court area and surrounding buffer zone
Physical Contact
- Four Square is a non-contact sport. Players must not push, shove, trip, or block other players
- Players should be aware of others' positions to avoid collisions, especially when lunging for the ball near dividing lines
- If two players collide, the point should be replayed (redo) and the players reminded to maintain spatial awareness
- Players waiting in the queue must remain outside the buffer zone to prevent collisions with active players
Preventing Injury
- Warm up before playing, especially before competitive sessions. Light stretching of hands, wrists, shoulders, and legs is recommended
- Players with hand or wrist injuries should avoid playing until healed, as repeated ball strikes can aggravate existing conditions
- Encourage players to hit the ball with an open palm rather than a closed fist to reduce the risk of hand injuries
- Cherry Bombs and hard slams should be moderated when playing with younger or less experienced players
- Enforce the "no hitting above the shoulders" rule strictly to prevent facial and head injuries
Sun and Weather
- When playing outdoors, ensure players have access to water and shade during breaks
- Avoid playing on hot asphalt during peak summer heat, as the surface can cause burns from falls and the ball may become slippery from sweat
- Suspend play during lightning, heavy rain, or high winds that affect ball control
- Apply sunscreen and wear hats or visors during extended outdoor sessions
Age-Appropriate Modifications
- For young children (ages 5-7): Use a smaller, softer ball; reduce court size to 10x10 feet; prohibit Cherry Bombs and hard spikes
- For elementary-age players (ages 8-12): Standard court and ball sizes; adult supervision recommended; encourage Friendlies rules
- For adults and competitive play: Full rules apply; players assume responsibility for their own safety
- Mixed-age games should default to the safety standards appropriate for the youngest participant
Supervision
Games involving children should have adult supervision, particularly on school playgrounds and in organized recreation settings. Supervisors should be familiar with the rules and empowered to resolve disputes, enforce safety rules, and remove players who engage in dangerous behavior. A first aid kit should be accessible at the playing location.