Section 8: Safety Considerations
Pictionary is a low-contact indoor game, but a few precautions keep energetic play comfortable and safe. Arrange the playing area so drawers can move their arms without striking furniture, walls, lights, or nearby players.
Physical Safety
- Keep floors, aisles, and the route to the drawing station clear of bags, cords, drinks, and loose materials.
- Place the drawing surface on a stable support and do not allow players to climb on chairs or furniture to reach it.
- Use markers only on the intended surface; cap them when not in use and follow any product safety instructions.
- Allow seated drawing, extra space, rest breaks, or slower rotations for anyone who needs them.
- Do not run to the drawing station or grab equipment from another player.
Inclusive and Appropriate Play
Select prompts suitable for the players' ages, cultures, language skills, and comfort levels. Remove prompts involving private information, traumatic subjects, discriminatory stereotypes, or content a participant has asked to avoid. Artistic ability should never be mocked; unusual drawings are part of the fun.
Hygiene and Shared Materials
Clean shared markers and frequently handled materials when appropriate, especially during large gatherings. Players should not place markers in their mouths. Anyone with a relevant allergy or sensitivity should be offered suitable materials and adequate ventilation.
Managing Excitement
Guessers should remain far enough from the drawing surface to avoid bumping the drawer. Keep shouting at a comfortable volume for the room, and use turn-taking accommodations if overlapping guesses create sensory or communication difficulties. Stop play immediately if someone is injured, distressed, or unable to participate safely.