1. Introduction Summerhayes Juniors Fishing Club ("the Club") is committed to ensuring a safe and secure environment for all members, including children, parents, volunteers, and coaches. This policy sets out the Club’s approach to maintaining high standards of health and safety.

2. General Safety Guidelines

• All activities must be conducted with safety as the primary concern.
• Children must be supervised at all times by a responsible adult.
• Any potential hazards should be reported to the designated Health & Safety Officer immediately.
• Members must follow safety instructions provided by coaches and officials.

3. Risk Assessments

• The Club will conduct risk assessments for all fishing venues and activities.
• Identified risks will be mitigated by implementing appropriate safety measures.
• Risk assessments will be reviewed regularly and updated as necessary.

4. First Aid & Emergency Procedures

• A first aid kit will be available at all club events and sessions.
• At least one first-aid trained individual will be present at all activities.
• In the event of an accident, an Incident Report Form must be completed and submitted to the Health & Safety Officer.
• Emergency contacts for all juniors must be readily available to the coaching team.

5. Allergies & Bait Safety

• Many fishing baits contain allergens such as peanuts, shellfish, and other potential allergens.
• Parents/guardians must complete the Parental Consent Form (https://summerhayesjuniors.co.uk/parental-consent-form/) detailing any known allergies.
• Children without a completed Parental Consent Form will not be permitted to participate in Club activities.
• Coaches and volunteers will take necessary precautions to ensure that allergic children avoid exposure to allergens, but ultimate responsibility lies with the parents/guardians.

6. Weather Conditions & Preparedness

• Parents/guardians must ensure children are dressed appropriately for weather conditions.
• During hot weather, children must wear sun protection, including hats and sunscreen.
• Sessions may be postponed or canceled in the event of extreme weather conditions.

7. Equipment Safety

• All fishing equipment must be checked regularly for damage or defects.
• Children must be instructed on how to handle fishing gear safely.
• Barbless hooks should be used where appropriate to minimize injury.
• No casting of fishing rods or poles in unsafe areas.

8. Supervision & Ratios

• A minimum supervision ratio of 1 coach to 4 children will be maintained.
• Parents/guardians are responsible for their child’s behavior and safety unless stated otherwise by the Committee.
• Coaches and volunteers must not be left alone with a child unless it is an emergency situation.

9. Incident Reporting

• All accidents, injuries, or near-misses must be recorded in the Club’s Incident Report Log.
• Serious incidents must be reported to the Health & Safety Officer and, where necessary, external authorities.
• Follow-up actions will be taken to prevent similar incidents in the future.

10. Fire & Water Safety

• The Club will ensure that fishing areas are free from significant fire hazards.
• Children must not enter the water under any circumstances unless part of a supervised and approved activity.
• Emergency water rescue equipment will be available where necessary.

11. Policy Review This policy will be reviewed annually and updated as necessary in line with best practices and legal requirements.