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Although Cheerleading may not be statistically more dangerous than any other sport, when injuries happen they can be severe in nature. It's a known fact that safety is usually first and foremost in the minds of Cheerleaders and coaches alike. But if that one incident were to occur, would your squad be prepared? Do you have an emergency plan in place? Have your squad members gone over the procedure? And does everyone know what to do in the event of an accident?

If your squad doesn't have an emergency procedure, now is the time to initiate one. With a little preparation and planning you can stop a small accident from turning into a major disaster.

Tips on an Emergency Procedure

• Get a First Aid Kit and be sure everyone knows where it is kept.
  • Stock the First Aid Kit with:
    • Band-Aids
    • Gauze
    • Disinfectant
    • Pencil and paper
    • Zip lock bags
    • Scissors
    • Tweezers
    • Compresses
    • Splints
    • Antiseptic
    • Adhesive Tape
    • Safety pins
    • Copies of medical forms with emergency phone numbers and medical releases on all squad members.
• Carry your First Aid Kit with you every where you go, including traveling to and from games, practices, and competitions.
• Familiarize your squad with the most common Cheerleading injuries and how to treat them.
• Remember RICE - Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation.
• Establish a chain of command. Coach - Assistant Coach - Captain - Co-Captain and so on.
• Stay calm. Talk calmly to the injured person and to other squad members.
• Don't crowd the injured person.
• Keep the patient still. If you suspect a head, neck or back injury, DON'T move the person.
• Cover the injured with a blanket or warm clothing to prevent shock.
• Learn CPR.
• Call a doctor or paramedics.

Safety is like so many other things in Cheerleading, the more you practice it, the better you become at it. Be prepared, know what to do and how to do, use your common sense. Learn and follow the Cheerleading safety guidelines of the AACCA. And regardless of whether you're in your home, at a gym or on the field remember - Safety First!

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