Accident Guidelines

While accidents or illness are uncommon they can still happen. Leaders should take whatever action they deem appropriate in the circumstances bearing in mind the safety and wellbeing of everyone in the group is of utmost importance.

  • Before setting off make sure the leader / tail runner is carrying a first aid kit.  It contains some Personal Protection Equipment, a range of minor injury dressings and some basic shelter for bad weather.

  • If someone takes ill or gets injured the leader / tail runner must be informed.  The group should stop in a safe place as directed by the leader. If there is a danger of further injuries take appropriate safe action.

  • Stay calm but act swiftly and observe the situation. Listen to what the injured person is saying.

  • In the event of an emergency call 999 or 112 for the emergency services.  Emergencies may include collapse, chest pain, severe breathlessness, collision with a vehicle, ANY head injury or any injury requiring specialist treatment.

  • Do not move someone with major injuries. Wait for the emergency medics.

  • Ask if there is a qualified first aider who can take action for minor injuries. Alert the first aider, if available, who should take appropriate action for minor injuries.  The leader will carry a small range of first aid supplies for minor injuries.

  • If the injured / ill person is capable of getting back to the start point they must be accompanied by the leader / tail runner or other person agreed with the injured / ill person

  • If the injured / ill person is not capable of getting back to the start point the leader / tail runner or other agreed person should remail with the injured / ill until assistance arrives.  Consider using the Emergency Taxi Service. 

  • Deal with the rest of the group and ensure that they are adequately supervised.  The run may be continued for the remainder of the group which should be advised of any changes including, leader / tail runner and route.

  • If appropriate / necessary the leader should contact the injured person's parent/carer/ICE contact.  (The club Welfare Officer will have ICE numbers where provided by members).

  • Leaders should complete an Accident Report Form and pass it / email it to the Head Coach within 24 hours (ballymenarunners@hotmail.com)

  • The club Secretary / Chair should also be notified in the event of significant injury / illness or where the emergency services have been called.

A summary of this guidance can be found on the Leaders Handout.

We run together.