CCA Figure Skating Club Safety Policy

1.0 Introduction and Purpose

The CCA Figure Skating Club is committed to providing a safe, positive, and healthy environment for all skaters, coaches, parents, and staff. This safety policy is designed to prevent injuries, protect against misconduct, and promote a culture of respect and awareness, both on and off the ice. All participants are responsible for understanding and adhering to this policy.

2.0 General Policies

2.1 Helmets:

The use of a CSA-approved hockey helmet is mandatory for all skaters in the Pre-School, Hockey Buddies, Power Skating, Learn to Skate, and Intro to Figure Skating programs. Our full helmet policy by program can be found here.

2.2 Proper Equipment:

All skaters should wear equipment that is appropriate for their registered program. Our full equipment list by program can he found here. Skaters must wear skates and equipment that are in good condition and fit properly. Skates should be sharpened regularly.

2.3 Dress Code: 

All skaters should wear clothing that is appropriate for their registered program. Our full equipment list by program which includes clothing requirements can he found here. No loose jewelry, long skirts, scarves, or clothing that could become a safety hazard.

2.4 Code of Conduct:

All skaters, coaches, and parents must abide by the program's Code of Conduct, which emphasizes respect, sportsmanship, and positive communication. Bullying, harassment, and any form of misconduct will not be tolerated.

3.0 On-Ice Safety and Etiquette

3.1 Right of Way:

To prevent collisions, the following right-of-way rules are in effect:

• A skater or group of skaters performing their choreographed routine with music has the right of way. Skaters should move to the boards and/or out of their path.
• A skater preparing for a jump or in the middle of a spin.

Skaters are expected to be aware of their surroundings at all times and look before entering the ice, changing direction, or performing a jump. Faster skaters should yield to slower skaters unless the above right-of-way rules apply.

3.2 General Rules:

The following on-ice rules are in effect:

• Skate with the general flow of traffic.
• Listen to direction from coaches and assistants.
• Do not stand in the middle of the ice. If you need to stop, move to the boards.
• Do not sit on the ice for prolonged periods after a fall. Get up as quickly and safely as possible.
• Do not throw snow, eat snow, or dig at the ice with your skate blades.
• No food or drinks are allowed on the ice aside from water bottled stored on the boards and used only at appropriate, coach-approved times.
• Cell phone use is prohibited on the ice, except for coaches recording a skater's performance for coaching purposes, or skaters rehearsing a choreographed routine with music.

4.0 Off-Ice Safety

4.1 Dressing Rooms:

Skaters and parents should use dressing rooms respectfully. Valuables should not be left unattended.

4.2 Concourse and Aisles:

Skaters must wear skate guards when walking on any surface that is not a rubber mat. Running, horseplay, or playing with skate blades off the ice is prohibited.

4.3 First Aid:

The arena's First Aid kit and emergency procedures are located at the back of the arena in the zamboni room. The CCA Figure Skating Club also keeps a first aid kit in the music box during lessons. All on-ice staff are trained in basic first aid and emergency protocols.

5.0 Injury and Emergency Procedures

5.1 Minor Injuries:

For minor cuts, bumps, or scrapes, please alert a coach or rink staff member. The skater may receive first aid and be able to return to the ice.

5.2 Serious Injuries:

In the event of a serious injury, a coach will immediately assess the situation and, if necessary, call for a parent and emergency services. The skater will not be moved unless there is an immediate safety risk. All injuries must be reported to the Head Coach and documented in an incident report.

5.3 Concussion Protocol:

If a skater sustains a head injury or is suspected of having a concussion, they will be immediately removed from the ice. They are not permitted to return to the program until they have been medically cleared by a physician.

6.0 Safe Sport and Child Protection

CCA Figure Skating Club is committed to providing a safe environment free from all forms of misconduct, including emotional, physical, and sexual abuse, bullying, and harassment.

6.1 Reporting:

If you witness or suspect any form of misconduct, you have a responsibility to report it immediately to a coach, the Head Coach or other member of staff.

6.2 Privacy:

Coaches and staff will respect the privacy of all skaters.

6.3 Monitoring:

The program will enforce policies to ensure that all interactions between coaches and skaters are appropriate and in a public setting where possible.

7.0 Responsibilities

7.1 Skaters:

Are responsible for following all safety rules and showing respect for others.

7.2 Parents:

Are responsible for ensuring their skater has proper equipment, understands the rules, and for supervising their child when not on the ice.

7.3 Coaches:

Are responsible for providing a safe and productive environment, teaching skills in a progressive and safe manner, and upholding all aspects of this policy.

By participating in the CCA Figure Skating Club, all members agree to abide by this Safety Policy and work together to ensure a positive and safe experience for everyone.

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