TLL SAFETY PLAN

Torrington Little League strives to provide an opportunity for our community’s children to learn the game of baseball in a

safe and friendly environment.

2018 Torrington Little League Safety PlanTo be implemented/in effect Jan 1, 2018 to Jan 1, 2019

The Torrington Little League Board of Directors are committed to the continuous improvement of our baseball program and following our League safety mission, to provide an opportunity for our community’s children to learn the game of baseball in a safe and friendly environment. We

strive to teach players the value of teamwork, sportsmanship and fair play.

The following resources are highly encouraged to be used by managers, coaches and parents to help insure the safety of all. Please note resources, such as some clinics are required by those who

intend to coach and/or umpire for Torrington Little League in 2018.

1. In order to improve communication with our members and make league information easily accessible, Torrington Little League launched TorringtonLittleLeague.com . Our webpage provides pertinent safety information, online registration and coaching applications. Board meeting agendas, minutes, contact information and links to coaching resources, including Little League International’s Little League University are available as well.

2. In order to ensure safety practice continues at home, Torrington Little League encourages parents to utilize all available resources, including coaching and safety clinics (information can be found in the following pages of this safety plan).

3. In effort to decrease likelihood of lightning strike occurrence, managers and coaches are encouraged to use the WeatherBug app for smart phones which provides real-time, neighborhood specific severe weather alerts including on the spot Spark lightening detection.

4. To further safeguard children, Torrington Little League will use J.D.Palatine for mandatory background checks.

5. All managers are required to maintain CPR, AED & First Aid as well as concussion training. These are a combination of in person and online courses that must be attended every two years.

6. In effort to reduce the likelihood of youth sport injury, Torrington Little League manager candidates are required to attend the sport injury prevention clinics once every two years. Failure to do so results in coaching ineligibility

7. In effort to grow our league, both players and coaches, into the strongest and most knowledgeable league possible all Managers are required to utilize the link you will be given to the online Big Al’s baseball coaching website.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

PRE-SEASON PLAY/SEASON RESPONSIBILITIES...............................................................................................11-12PRE-GAME/GAME/POST GAME RESPONSIBILITIES.........................................................................................12-13CONDITIONING & STRETCHING...................................................................................................................13-14PITCHING/PITCH COUNT...........................................................................................................................14-15

C ONTACT I NFORMATION

Emergency Contacts:

Torrington Police 860-489-2000Torrington Fire Department 860-489-2255Campion Ambulance 860-482-3366Safety Officer 207-798-1835

Board Member Contacts:Title Name Phone: Cell emailPresident Linn Baranowitz 860-733-3666 TLLPres@gmail.com

Vice President Anthony Mercogliano 845-891-6189 Amercog9@aol.com

Treasurer Jamie Doherty 207-798-9344 Coach.jdoherty@gmail.com Secretary/Registrar/Information Officer

Sarah Lloyd 860-309-1642 sarahlloyd@optonline.net

Safety Officer Misti Doherty 207-798-1835 CoachMistiD@yahoo.com Player Agent Wendy Pataky 860-480-3593 wmerk9@hotmail.com Coaching Coordinator Joe McCoy 860-302-7251 Jrmccoy4@optonline.net Juniors/Majors Director Joe Groebl 860-309-0610 jgroebl@yahoo.com AA Director Doug Pergola 860-601-1141 Djp_23@hotmail.com AAA Director Lawrence Basso 203-943-3286 lcbasso@optonline.net Instructional/T-Ball Director Josh Smith 860-733-5287 Smeets8@yahoo.com Field Maintenance Director Aron Moore 860-866-7579 aronmoore11@gmail.com Umpire-in-Chief Matt Young 860-921-3027 Matt_young913@yahoo.com Equipment Manager Brent Wall 860-601-0990 Brent2two@aim.com Concessions Manager Kevin Green 203-206-9018 Kdgreen4471@gmail.com Sponsorship/Fundraising Chris Stolarcyk 570-852-3166 C_stolarcyk@yahoo.com

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OBJECTIVETo provide an environment in which risk of injury is reduced to the lowest possible level by the application of this Safety Plan.

SAFETY REQUIREMENTS : SAFETY MANUAL, FIRST AID KIT AND CODE OF CONDUCT DISTRIBUTIONEach team will be issued a Safety Manual and a First Aid Kit. Managers will acknowledge the receipt of both by reading, signing and returning this distribution form on the day of equipment distribution. You will not be assigned an equipment bag until this form is signed and returned.

S AFETY MANUAL This document will be distributed to every manager of every team in every division of Torrington Little League before any practices or games take place. Note: The Safety Plan Binder must be returned at the end of each season.

FIRST AID KITS First Aid Kits, including two ice packs will be issued to each team at the beginning of

the season. Extra ice packs are available in the concession stand. The concession stand will have a First Aid Kit and a Safety Manual in plain sight at all

time. The Clubhouse will have a First Aid Kit and a Safety Manual in plain sight at all times. The First Aid Kit will include the necessary items to treat an injured player until

professional help arrives if need be. To protect against the spread of blood-borne pathogens, the First Aid Kit will include

latex or rubber gloves, antiseptic wipes and sealable plastic bags to properly dispose of blood and blood-soiled items.

The Safety Manual will include emergency services phone numbers for all Board Directors, the Torrington Little League Code of Conduct, Do’s and Don’ts of treating injured players.

Managers are required to have the First Aid Kit and Safety Manual at all practices/games and must replace contents as needed.

SAFETY CODE OF CONDUCT-COACH The Board of Directors of Torrington Little League has mandated the following Code of Conduct. All coaches and managers will read this Code of Conduct and sign, acknowledging that he or she understands and agrees to comply with the Code of Conduct prior to receiving equipment.

No Manager or Coach shall: At any time lay a hand upon, push, shove, strike, or threaten to strike an official.

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Be guilty of heaping personal verbal or physical abuse upon any official for any real or imaginary belief of a wrong decision or judgment.

Be guilty of an objectionable demonstration of dissent at an official’s decision by throwing of gloves, helmets, hats, bats, balls, or any other forceful unsportsmanlike action. (Upon 3rd notice you will permanently be suspended).

Be guilty of using unnecessarily rough tactics against an opposing player in game play. Be guilty of a physical attack upon any board member, official manager, coach,

player or spectator. Be guilty of the use of profane, obscene or vulgar language in any manner at any time. Appear on the field of play, stands, or anywhere on the TLL complex while in an

intoxicated state at any time. Intoxicated will be defined as an odor or behavior issue. Be guilty of discussing publicly with spectators in an abusive manner any players or

plays during the game. Speak disrespectfully to any manager, coach, official or representative of the league. Be guilty of tampering or manipulation of any league rosters, schedules, draft

positions or selections, official score books, rankings, financial records or procedures.

Challenge an umpire’s authority. The umpires shall have the authority and discretion during a game to penalize the offender according to the infraction up to and including removal from the game.

The Board of Directors will review all infractions of the TLL Code of Conduct. Depending on the seriousness or frequency, the board may assess additional disciplinary action up to and including expulsion from the league.

Manager or Coach shall note: Each player, manager, designated coach, and umpire, shall use proper reasoning and

care to prevent injury to him/herself and to others. Only league approved managers and/or coaches are allowed to practice with teams. Only league-approved mangers and/or coaches will supervise

batting cages. > Managers will be certified in First Aid and CPR/AED training.

First-aid kits are issued to each team manager during the pre-season and additional kits will be available upon request from the equipment manager.

No games or practices will be held when weather or field conditions are poor, particularly when lighting is inadequate.

Never hesitate to report any present or potential safety hazard to the TLL Safety Officer immediately.

Play area will be inspected before games and practices for holes, damage, stones, glass and other foreign objects. Any object deemed harmful or suspicious in nature must be reported to police prior to disposal.

Equipment will be inspected regularly for condition and proper fit. Equipment will be stored within the team dugout or behind screens, not within the area

defined by the umpires as in-play. Only players, managers, coaches and umpires are permitted on the playing field or in the

dugout during games and practice sessions. Responsibility for keeping bats and loose equipment off the field of play should be

that of the manager and designated coaches. After a play where a batted ball is put into play, it is the responsibility of the on-deck batter to retrieve the bat and get it back to the dugout.

During practice and games, all players should be alert and watching the batter on each pitch.

During warm-up drills, players should be spaced so that no one is endangered by wild throws or missed catches.

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All pre-game warm-ups should be performed within the confines of the playing field and not within areas that are frequented by spectators.

Headfirst slides are only permitted when a runner is returning to a base. Managers and coaches are not allowed to catch pitchers; this includes standing at the

backstop during practice as an informal catcher for batting practice. Parents of players who wear glasses should be encouraged to provide “safety glasses” for

their children. Managers will only use the official Little League balls supplied by TLL including

reduced impact balls for younger players. Managers will never leave an unattended child at a practice or game. Make arrangements to have a cellular phone available when a game or practice is at a

facility that does not have public phones. Speed Limit is 5 miles per hour in roadways and parking lots. No alcohol or drugs allowed on the premises at any time. Smoking of nicotine and/or vapor cigarettes is strictly prohibited on TLL grounds. No medication will be taken at the facility unless administered directly by the child’s

parent. This includes aspirin and Tylenol.

SAFETY BINDER/FIRST AID KITS/CODE OF CONDUCT ACKNOWLEDGE OF RECEIPT

I have received my Safety Binder and First Aid Kit and will have them both present at the field practices, batting cages, games (season games and post-season games) and any other event

where team members could become injured. I ensure that my assistant coaches will read and have access to the Safety Binder and First Aid Kit at all times. _________ (initial)

I have read the Torrington Little League Code of Conduct and promise to adhere to its rules and regulation.

TLL S AFETY C ODE – P ARENT /P LAYER

The Board of Directors of Torrington Little League have mandated the following Safety Code. All Parents and players are required to sign and return the Safety Code with their medical release form.

LEAGUE RESPONSIBILITY TO PARENTS, PLAYERS, FELLOW MEMBERS:

No Board Member, Manager, Coach, Player or Spectator shall: At any time lay a hand upon, push, shove, strike, or threaten to strike an official. Be guilty of heaping personal verbal or physical abuse upon any official for any real

or imaginary belief of a wrong decision or judgment. Be guilty of an objectionable demonstration of dissent at an official’s decision by

throwing of gloves, helmets, hats, bats, balls, or any other forceful unsportsmanlike action. (Upon 3rd notice you will permanently be suspended).

Be guilty of using unnecessarily rough tactics against an opposing player in game play. Be guilty of a physical attack upon any board member, official manager, coach, player

or spectator. Be guilty of the use of profane, obscene or vulgar language in any manner at any time.

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Appear on the field of play, stands, or anywhere on the TLL complex while in an intoxicated state at any time. Intoxicated will be defined as an odor or behavior issue.

Be guilty of discussing publicly with spectators in an abusive manner any players or plays during the game.

Speak disrespectfully to any parent, manager, coach, official or representative of the league.

Be guilty of tampering or manipulation of any league rosters, schedules, draft positions or selections, official score books, rankings, financial records or procedures.

Shall challenge an umpire’s authority. The umpires shall have the authority and discretion during a game to penalize the offender according to the infraction up to and including removal from the game.

The Board of Directors will review all infractions of the TLL Code of Conduct. Depending on the seriousness or frequency, the board may assess additional disciplinary action up to and including expulsion from the league.

Player Requirements and Responsibilities: TLL mandates all male players wear a plastic cup with athletic supporter. TLL recommends batting helmets include safety facial shield. No foul language on the field or in the dugout. At no time will “horse play” be permitted in the dugout or on the playing field. All catchers must wear chest protectors with neck collar, throat guard, shin guards and

catcher’s helmet; all of which must meet Little League Standards. Any player acting in the form of a catcher must use a catcher’s mitt and may not

catch in practices or games without wearing full catcher’s gear. Shoes with metal spikes or cleats are not permitted. Shoes with molded cleats are

permissible. Players will not wear watches, rings, pins, jewelry or other metallic items during

practices or games. Exception: Jewelry that alerts medical personnel to a specific condition (must be taped in place).

No food or drink except sunflower seeds, bottled water, or Gatorade/Powerade (sports drinks) permitted in dugouts.

No climbing fences. No swinging bats or throwing baseballs at any time within the walkways and common

areas of the complex. No throwing rocks and or being disruptive (verbally or physically) to the other

players. No children under the age of 14 are permitted unattended in the Concession

Stands. No playing in the parking lots at any time. There is no running allowed on or

around the bleachers. Players and spectators should be alert at all times for foul balls and errant throws.

ACKNOWLEDGE OF RECEIPTI HAVE READ THE TORRINGTON LITTLE LEAGUE SAFETY CODE AND PROMISE TO ADHERE TO

ITS RULES AND REGULATIONS.

PRINT NAME OF PARENT: SIGNATURE OF PARENT: DATE:

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PRINT NAME OF PLAYER: SIGNATURE OF PLAYER: TEAM NAME AND DIVISION:

VOLUNTEER FORMS/BACKGROUND CHECKS – SEE ATTACHED

Managers, coaches, board members, volunteer or hired workers, who provide regular services to TLL and/or have repetitive access to, or contact with players or teams must fill-out a volunteer form and provide a government issued ID and social security number. Anyone who refuses to fill out the volunteer form will not be allowed to be a league member.

C OACHES C LINICS 2018 Little League Coaches and Assistants are encouraged to attend the following:

BIG AL’S ONLINE Torrington Little League will be providing all managers with their own link to access online training materials from Big Al’s baseball training. It is required that all managers to review this information to prepare you for the season and gain insight on the skills and strategy you need to teach, drills and practice plans and great approaches for game day.

UMPIRE CLINICThose interested in umpiring games for Torrington Little League in 2018 are required to attend the following umpire clinic

2018 District 6 Umpire Clinic:Held on 3/9/18 at 1pm at Mandell JCC Valley Sports & Community Center, Canton, CT.Clinic will cover Basic 8 calls, Plate Mechanics, Field Mechanics, and Advanced Mechanics.

S AFETY C LINICS Anyone interested in being a coach/manager for Torrington Little League in 2017 is required to attend the following safety clinics.

First Aid/CPR/AED Clinic:Hosted by: Misti Doherty, certified trainer with the American Heart Association.

This clinic is mandatory for all Board Members and Managers who are not already certified in First Aid/AED. First Aid training will cover choking, bleeding control, splinting, seizures, and diabetic emergencies. CPR and AED training will teach CPR on both a child adult; AED training will teach how to properly use a defibrillator on both and adult and pediatrics. Those who currently hold an active certification need not attend, but must provide proof of certification. This is a two-year certification.

Sports Injury Prevention Clinic:Hosted by: Charlotte Hungerford Hospital Director of Rehabilitation, Amanda S. Hill, OTR/L, MA, and members of the CHH Athletic Training Department.

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This clinic is mandatory for all managers and coaches. This clinic will cover:Protecting the Overhead Athlete: Shoulder/Elbow Injury Prevention

Anatomy and Biomechanics of the Arm Proper Mechanics: What to look for in higher risk activities that may affect a joint Injury warning signs/ complaints to listen for/response protocol Stretching Techniques

Concussion in Youth SportsTorrington Little League Requires Concussion Training for all Coaches

Recognizing the signs of concussions and obtaining appropriate medical treatment The nature and risks of concussion, dangers of continuing to play, and proper

return to play protocols.

Online Concussion TrainingTorrington Little League will provide all managers with a link to complete yearly concussion training. Online training will be done via the HEADS UP training course at cdc.gov.

TLL B OARD OF D IRECTORS S AFETY R ESPONSIBILITIES

Responsibility of the President: The President of TLL is responsible for ensuring that the policies and regulations of the TLL Safety Officer are carried out by the entire membership to the best of his abilities. He/She is responsible for submitting player data and rosters to Little League Data Center.

Responsibility of the Safety Officer:The main responsibility of the TLL Safety Officer is to develop and implement the League’s safety program. The TLL Safety Officer is the link between the Board of Directors of Torrington Little League and its managers, coaches, umpires, team safety officers, players, spectators, and any other third parties on the complex in regards to safety matters, rules and regulations.

Safety Officer’s responsibilities include: Assisting parents and individuals with insurance claims and will act as the liaison

between the insurance company and the parents and individuals. Explaining insurance benefits to claimants and assisting them with filing the correct

paperwork. Insuring that each team receives its Safety Manual and its First Aid Kit at the beginning

of the season. Installing First-Aid Kits in all concession stands and the clubhouse and re-stocking the

kits as needed. Inspecting concession stands and checking fire extinguishers. Checking fields with Managers/Umpires and listing areas needing attention. Scheduling a First-Aid Clinic. Acting immediately in resolving unsafe or hazardous conditions once a situation has been

brought to his/her attention. Making spot checks at practices and games to make sure all managers have their First-

Aid Kits and Safety Manuals. Tracking all injuries and near misses in order to identify injury trends. Making sure that safety is a monthly Board Meeting topic, and allowing experienced

people to share ideas on improving safety. Periodically observe practices to ensure managers, coaches and players are participating

in safe, well-organized drills. Working along side the Field Maintenance Officer to survey fields and record

changes/needs on the 2018 Field Survey Form.

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New This Year- TLL 2018 Safety InitiativeSafety Officer will insure:

All fields are equipped with lockable mounted boxes obtaining an AED. This lockable box will keep the AED safe from weather and vandalism yet readily available for emergencies. Safety officer will work together with Litchfield County Dispatch to ensure a code to the lock is stored in the dispatching system as well as its location at all fields. Any caller needing access to the AED for patient resuscitation purposes will gain access to the code.

Division Directors are responsible for periodically monitoring practices to ensure players are being taught the fundamentals of the game/proper mechanics.

The TLL Information Officer is responsible for maintaining TLL’s web site. The IO will send text safety/weather alerts to members when deemed necessary, ensure game times/schedules are posted promptly, and update safety resources as needed.

The TLL Concession Stand Manager is responsible for ensuring that they and volunteers are trained in all required safety procedures. The refrigeration temperature, cleanliness and checking the dates of bagged food items that are sold, will be the responsibility of the Concession Stand Manager. The CSM is also responsible for getting updated permits from Torrington Health Department. They will also ensure proper procedure forms are displayed in concession stand.

The TLL Equipment Manager is responsible for getting damaged equipment repaired or replaced as reported. The Safety Officer will inspect inventory for damage with the Equipment Manager prior to season opening and request replacements. This replacement will happen in a timely manner. The equipment manager will also exchange equipment if it doesn’t fit properly. Equipment is checked and tested when issued, but it is the Manager’s responsibility to maintain it. Managers should inspect equipment before each game and each practice.

Managers will be assigned an equipment bag and must complete an itemized check-list indicating equipment condition upon receipt. The Equipment Manager and Manger must sign the form upon issue and review/sign upon return. It is the Equipment Managers responsibility to ensure missing and/or damaged equipment is documented and provided to the Safety Officer and President.Note: Players like to bring their own gear. This equipment can only be used if it meets the requirements as outlined in this Safety Manual and the Official Little League Rule Book.

MANAGERS AND COACHES: The Manager is a person appointed by the president and selected by the board of TLL to

be responsible for the team’s actions on the field and to represent the team in communications with the umpire and the opposing team.

Managers and Coaches will inspect the field for dangerous debris and/or damage before and after games/practice.

After each game, Managers and Coaches will check the spectator areas for waste and potential dangerous materials left behind and remove them so that the next game starts in a clean, safe environment. Any object deemed harmful, or suspicious in nature, must be reported to police prior to disposal.

The Manager shall always be responsible for the team’s conduct, observance of the official rules and deference to the umpires.

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The Manager is also responsible for the safety of his players. If a Manager leaves the field, that Manager shall designate a Coach, as a substitute and such Substitute Manager shall have the duties, rights and responsibilities of the Manager.

Pre-Season Managers will:

Take possession of this Safety Manual and the First-Aid Kit supplied by TLL. Obtain medical release forms from all players. Make sure that telephone access is available at all activities including practices. Attend mandatory safety clinics given by TLL. Cover the basics of safe play found in the Safety Code with his/her team (including

parents) before starting the first practice. Return signed TLL Code of Conduct and the TLL Safety Code to the TLL Safety

Officer before the first game. Teach players the fundamentals of the game while advocating safety. Notify parents that if a child is injured, he or she can’t return to practice unless they

have a note from their doctor. This medical release protects you if that child should become further injured during practice or games. There are no exceptions to this rule.

Remind players to bring water bottles to practices and games. Ask parents to bring sunscreen for themselves and their child. Encourage your players to wear mouth protection and face guards on batting helmets. Remind parents/players of the LLI bat requirements. Requirements are posted on

the TLL webpage. Soliciting a Team Mom to assist with parent communications, website requirements

and aid in finding volunteers for concession stand is strongly recommended.

** Injury prevention requires sound knowledge of baseball fundamentals and proper mechanics. It is the manager/coaches responsibility to attend training clinics and seek out available resources before attempting to teach said skills to their players.

Season Play Managers will:

Ensure equipment is in first-rate working order. Ensure players have required equipment at all times. Make sure that telephone access is available at all activities including practices. Not expect more from their players than what the players are capable of. Teach the fundamentals of the game to players.o Catching fly ballso Sliding correctlyo Proper fielding of ground ballso Simple pitching motion for balanceo Routine playso Player position ruleso Proper hitting mechanics

Be open to ideas, suggestions, or help. Have players wear sliding pads if they have cuts or scrapes on their legs. Always have First-Aid Kit and Safety Manual on hand. Not catch pitchers. Use common sense.

Pre-Game and Practice Managers will:

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Make sure that players returning from being injured have a medical release form signed by their doctor and that form be submitted to the Safety Officer.

Make sure players are wearing the proper uniform and cup. Make sure that the equipment is in good working order and is safe. Walk the field for hazards before use. Agree with the opposing manager on the fitness of the playing field. In the event that the

two managers cannot agree, the President or a duly delegated representative shall make the determination.

Enforce the rule that no bats and balls are permitted on the field until all players have done their proper stretching and warm-ups.

Come prepared with well thought out, organized, fundamentally sound practice drills.

During the Game Managers will:

Make sure that players carry all gloves and other equipment off the field and to the dugout when their team is up at bat. No equipment shall be left lying on the field, either in fair or foul territory.

Keep players alert. Maintain discipline at all times. Be organized. Keep players and substitutes sitting on the team bench or in the dugout unless

participating in the game, or preparing to enter the game. Make sure catchers are wearing the proper equipment. Keep players off fences. Get players to drink often so they do not dehydrate. Not play children who are ill or injured. Attend to children that become injured in a game. Not lose focus by engaging in conversation with parents and passerby’s.

Post-Game Managers will:

Not leave the field until every team member has been picked up by a known family member or designated driver.

Return the field to its pre-game condition per TLL policy. Discuss any safety problems that occurred before, during or after the game with the Team

Safety Officer. Notify parents if their child has been injured no matter how small or insignificant the

injury is. There are no exceptions to this rule. This protects you, Little League Baseball Incorporated and TLL.

Document all injuries that occurred during game or practice, no matter how minor. Complete and submit the accident report form to the TLL Safety Officer when any

injury requiring first aid is sustained.

CONDITIONING & STRETCHINGConditioning is an integral part of accident prevention. Extensive studies on the effect of conditioning, commonly known as “warm-up,” have demonstrated that stretching and contracting of muscles just before an athletic activity improves general control of movements, coordination and alertness. Such drills also help develop the strength and stamina needed by the average youngster to compete with minimum accident exposure. The purpose of stretching is to increase flexibility within the various muscle groups and prevent tearing from overexertion.

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Stretching should never be done forcefully, but rather in a gradual manner to encourage looseness and flexibility.

Hints on Calisthenics Repetitions of at least 10. Have kids synchronize their movements. Vary upper body with lower body. Keep the pace up for a good cardio-vascular workout.

Hints on Stretching Players must complete callisthenic warm-ups prior to stretching (running/jumping jacks). Stretch necks, backs, arms, thighs, legs and calves. Hold the stretch for at least 10 seconds. Don’t allow bouncing while stretching. This tears down the muscle rather than stretching

it. Have one of the players lead the stretching exercises only if/when they have learned

appropriate stretching technique. Don’t ask the child to stretch more than he or she is capable of.

PITCHINGSource: Dr. Glenn Fleisig at the American Sports Medicine Institute

Little League managers and coaches are usually quick to teach their pitchers how to get movement on the ball. However, the technique that older players use is not appropriate for children thirteen (13) years and younger. The snapping of the arm used to develop this technique will most probably lead to serious injuries to the child as he/she matures.

Arm stress during the acceleration phase of throwing affects both the inside and the outside of the growing elbow. The forces generated during throwing can cause this growth plate to pull away (avulse) from the main bone. If the distance between the growth plate and main bone is great enough, surgery is the only option to fix it. This growth plate does not fully adhere to the main bone until age 15. Similarly, on the outside (or lateral) aspect of the elbow, the two bony surfaces can be damaged by compressive forces during throwing. This scenario can lead to a condition called Avascular Necrosis or Bone Cell Death as a result of compromise of the local blood flow to that area. This disorder is permanent and often leads to fragments of the bone breaking away (loose bodies), which float in the joint and can cause early arthritis. This loss of elbow motion and function often precludes further participation.

Studies have demonstrated that curveballs cause most problems at the inside of the elbow due to the sudden contractive forces of the wrist musculature. Fastballs, on the other hand, place more force at the outside of the elbow. Sidearm delivery, in one study, led to elbow injuries in 74% of pitchers compared with 27% in pitchers with a vertical delivery style.

Preliminary Data has demonstrated the Following: A significantly higher risk of elbow injury occurred after pitchers reached 50

pitches/outing. A significantly higher risk of shoulder injury occurred after pitchers reached 75

pitches/outing. In one season, a total of 450 pitches or more led to cumulative injury to the

elbow and the shoulder.

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The pitchers who limited their pitching repertoire to the fastball and change-up had the lowest rate of injury to their throwing arm.

A slider increased the risk of both elbow and shoulder problems.

Pitch Count Regulations

Ice is a universal First-Aid treatment for minor sports injuries. Ice controls the pain and swelling. Pitchers should be taught how to ice their arms at the end of a game.

UMPIRES:

Pre-Game Umpires will: Check equipment in dugouts of both teams, equipment that does not meet specifications

must be removed from the game. Walk the field for hazards with team manager. Make sure catchers are wearing helmets when warming up pitchers. Run hands along bats to make sure there are no dents. Make sure that bats have grips. Make sure there are foam inserts in helmets and that helmets meet Little League

NOCSAE specifications and bear Little League’s seal of approval. Check players to see if they are wearing jewelry. Check players to see if they are wearing metal cleats. Secure official Little League balls for play from both teams.

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During the Game Umpires will: Govern the game as mandated by Little League rules and regulations. Check baseballs for discoloration and nicks and declare a ball unfit for use if it exhibits

these traits. Act as the sole judge as to whether and when play shall be suspended or terminated

during a game because of unsuitable weather conditions or the unfit condition of the playing field; as to whether and when play shall be resumed after such suspension; and as to whether and when a game shall be terminated after such suspension.

Act as the sole judge as to whether and when play shall be suspended or terminated during a game because of low visibility due to atmospheric conditions or darkness.

Enforce the rule that no spectators shall be allowed on the field during the game. Make sure catchers are wearing the proper equipment. Continue to monitor the field for safety and playability. Make the calls loud and clear, signaling each call properly. Make sure players and spectators keep their fingers out of the fencing

Post-Game Umpires will: Check with the managers of both teams regarding safety violations. Report any unsafe

situations to the TLL Safety Officer by telephone and in writing.

HEALTH AND MEDICAL

Giving First Aid:

What is First Aid?First Aid means exactly what the term implies – it is the first care given to a victim. It is usually performed by the first person on the scene and continued until professional medical help arrives. At no time should anyone administering First Aid go beyond his or her capabilities. Know your limits!

The average response time on 9-1-1 calls is 5-7 minutes.Paramedics are in constant communication with the local hospital at all times preparing them for whatever emergency action might need to be taken. You cannot do this. Therefore, do not attempt to transport a victim to a hospital. Perform whatever First Aid you can and wait for the paramedics to arrive.

First Aid-Kits First Aid Kits will be furnished to each team at the beginning of the season. The TLL Safety Officer’s name and phone number are taped on the inside lid of all

First Aid Kits. The First Aid Kit will become part of the Team’s equipment package and shall be taken

to all practices, batting cage practices, games (whether season or post-season) and any other TLL Little League event where children’s safety is at risk.

Treatment On-Site Do...

Assess the injury. If the victim is conscious, find out what happened, where it hurts, watch for shock. Know your limitations.

Call 9-1-1 immediately if person is unconscious or seriously injured. Look for signs of injury (bleeding, swelling, laceration, deformity, etc.)

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Listen to the injured player describe what happened and what hurts if conscious. Before questioning, you may have to calm and soothe an excited child.

Feel gently and carefully the injured area for signs of swelling or grating of broken bone. Talk to your team afterwards about the situation if it involves them. Often players are upset and worried when another player is injured. They need to feel

safe and understand why the injury occurred.Don’t . . .

Administer any medications. Provide any food or beverage. Hesitate in giving aid when needed. Be afraid to ask for help if you’re not sure of the proper Procedure, (i.e.,

CPR, etc.) Transport injured individual except in extreme emergencies.

9-1-1 EMERGENCY NUMBERThe most important help that you can provide to a victim who is seriously injured is to call for professional medical help. Make the call quickly, preferably from a cell phone, near the injured person. If this is not possible, send someone else to make the call from a nearby telephone. Be sure to remain calm, speak clearly and answer all dispatcher questions to the best of your knowledge. Remember to get your safety binder out and readily available to share any pertinent player information with the emergency medical responders.

When to call –If the injured person is unconscious, call 9-1-1 immediately.Sometimes a conscious victim will tell you not to call an ambulance, and you may not be sure what to do. Call 9-1-1 anyway.

Request emergency medical provider if the victim – Is or becomes unconscious. Has trouble breathing or is breathing abnormally or inadequately. Has chest pain or pressure. Is bleeding severely. Has pressure or pain in the abdomen that does not go away. Is vomiting or passing blood. Has seizures, a severe headache, or slurred speech. Has an injury to the head, neck or back. Has possible broken bones.

Checking the Victim

Conscious Victims: If the victim is conscious, ask what happened. This information helps determine

what care may be needed. Look for other life-threatening conditions and conditions that need care

immediately Check the victim from head to toe, so you do not overlook any problems. If

suspected spinal injury do not ask the victim to move, and do not move the victim yourself.

Look for deformities, contusions, abrasions, punctures/penetrations, burns, tenderness, lacerations and swelling.

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Watch for changes in consciousness. Notice if the victim is drowsy, not alert, or confused. Look for changes in the victim’s breathing. Breathing that is not normal includes

noisy breathing such as gasping for air; making rasping, gurgling, or whistling sounds; breathing unusually fast or slow; and breathing that is painful.

Note if the skin is reddish, bluish, pale or gray. Ask the victim to move each part of the body that doesn’t hurt. Ask the victim if he or she can move the fingers, hands, arms, legs and feet. Watch the victim’s face for signs of pain and listen for sounds of pain such as

gasps, moans, or cries. If you are not sure if something is out of shape, check it against the other side of

the body. Look for a medical alert tag on the victim’s wrist or neck. A tag will give

you medical information about the victim, care to give for that problem, and who to call for help.

When you have finished checking, if the victim can move his or her body without any pain and there are no other signs of injury, have the victim rest sitting up.

When the victim feels ready, help him or her stand up. Based on your findings determine if 9-1-1 should be contacted

Unconscious VictimsIf the victim does not respond to you in any way, assume the victim is unconscious. Call 9-1-1 and report the emergency immediately.

Checking an Unconscious Victim: Tap and shout to see if the person responds. If no response – Look, listen and feel for breathing for about 5 seconds. If there is no response, position victim on back, while supporting head and neck. Look, listen, and feel for breathing for about 5 seconds. Check for pulse, if victim is pulseless, begin immediate bystander CPR. If the victim has a pulse but is not breathing, give 2 slow breaths into the victim’s

mouth while pinching the nostrils closed. Continue breathing for victim at a rate of 1 breath every 5 seconds (approximately12

breathes a minute) for adults and 1 breath every 3 seconds (approximately 20 breathes a minute) for infants and children.

Continue rescue breathing checking for a pulse every 2 minutes until victim becomes pulseless (begin CPR) or emergency responders arrive.

Muscle, Bone, or Joint Injuries:

Symptoms of Serious Muscle, Bone, or Joint Injuries:Always suspect a serious injury when the following signals are present and call 9-1-1 immediately:

Significant deformity Bruising and swelling Inability to use the affected part normally Bone fragments sticking out of a wound Victim feels bones grating; victim felt or heard a snap or pop at the

time of injury The injured area is cold and numb Cause of the injury suggests that the injury may be severe.

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Treatment for muscle or joint injuries: If ankle or knee is affected, do not allow victim to walk. Loosen or remove shoe; elevate

leg. Protect skin with thin towel or cloth. Then apply cold, wet compresses or cold packs

to affected area. Never pack a joint in ice or immerse in icy water. If a twisted ankle, do not remove the shoe – this will limit swelling.

Treatment for fractures:Fractures need to be splinted in the position it is found (unless a pulse is unable to be found) and no pressure is to be put on the area. Splints can be made from almost anything; rolled up magazines, twigs, bats, etc....

Treatment for broken bones:Once you have established that the victim has a broken bone, and you have called 9-1-1, all you can do is comfort the victim, keep him/her warm and still and treat for shock if necessary (see “Caring for Shock” section)

Head and Spine Injuries

Treatment for Concussion:Concussion is an injury to the brain resulting from an impact to the head; this can be fatal if the proper precautions are not taken.

Seek medical care if: A person is struck hard in the head but did not lose consciousness. A person experiences dizziness or nausea after a head injury. There is loss of memory of the event or time before/after the event; even if only a few

moments. If the victim is a child, tell parents about the injury and have them monitor the child after

the game. A person has a mild headache with no vision disturbance.

Call 9-1-1 if: There severe head trauma resulting in deformity, bleeding or laceration. There is loss of consciousness. An injured party vomits more than once There is confusion that does not quickly go away. A person is restless or agitated or experiences extreme drowsiness, weakness or initially

unable to walk. If a person has a severe headache, memory loss, slurred speach or is repeating the same

thing over and over. If injured party has a seizure following a head injury.

Signals of Head and Spine Injuries Changes in consciousness Severe pain or pressure in the head, neck, or back Tingling or loss of sensation in the hands, fingers, feet, and toes Partial or complete loss of movement of any body part Unusual bumps or depressions on the head or over the spine

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Blood or other fluids in the ears or nose Heavy external bleeding of the head, neck, or back Seizures Impaired breathing or vision as a result of injury Nausea or vomiting Persistent headache Loss of balance Bruising of the head, especially around the eyes and behind the ears

General Care for Head and Spine Injuries Call 9-1-1 immediately. Minimize movement of the head and spine. Maintain an open airway. Check consciousness and breathing. Control any external bleeding.

Care for Sudden IllnessIn the event rapid onset of illness

Call 9-1-1 Help the victim rest comfortably. Keep the victim from getting chilled or overheated. Reassure the victim. Watch for changes in consciousness and breathing. Do not give anything to eat or drink unless the victim is fully conscious.

If the victim.... Vomits – Place the victim on his or her side. Faints – Position him or her on the back and elevate the legs 8 to 10 inches if you do

not suspect a head or back injury. Has a diabetic emergency – Give the victim some form of sugar. Has a seizure – Do not hold or restrain the person or place anything between the

victim’s teeth. Remove any nearby objects that might cause injury. Cushion the victim’s head using folded clothing or a small pillow.

Caring for ShockSigns of ShockShock is likely to develop in any serious injury or illness. Signs of shock include:

Restlessness or irritability Altered consciousness Pale, cool, moist skin Rapid breathing Rapid pulse.

Caring for shock involves the following simple steps: Have the victim lie down. Helping the victim rest comfortably is important

because pain can intensify the body’s stress and accelerate the progression of shock.

Control any external bleeding. Help the victim maintain normal body temperature. If the victim is cool, try to cover

him or her to avoid chilling.

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Try to reassure the victim. Elevate the legs about 12 inches unless you suspect head, neck, or back injuries or

possible broken bones involving the hips or legs. If you are unsure of the victim’s condition, leave him or her lying flat.

Do not give the victim anything to eat or drink, even though he or she is likely to be thirsty.

Call 9-1-1 immediately. Shock can’t be managed effectively by first aid alone. A victim of shock requires advanced medical care as soon as possible.

Breathing Problems/Emergency Breathing

If victim is not breathing: Position victim on back while supporting head and neck. With victim’s head tilted back and chin lifted, pinch the nose shut. Give two (2) slow breaths into victim’s mouth. Breathe in until chest gently rises. Check for a pulse at the carotid artery (use fingers instead of thumb). If pulse is present but person is still not breathing give 1 slow breath about every 5-6

seconds. Do this for about 1 minute (10-12 breaths). Continue rescue breathing as long as a pulse is present but person is not

breathing or until emergency responders arrive.

Chocking with a Partial Obstruction with Good Air ExchangeSymptoms:

Forceful cough with wheezing sounds between coughs.Treatment:

Encourage victim to cough as long as good air exchange continues. DO NOT interfere with attempts to expel object.

Partial or Complete Airway Obstruction in Conscious VictimSymptoms:

Weak cough; high-pitched crowing noises during Inability to breathe, cough or speak; gesture of clutching neck between thumb and

index finger; exaggerated breathing efforts; dusky or bluish skin color.Treatment – The abdominal thrust maneuver

Stand behind the victim. Reach around victim with both arms under the victim’s arms. Place thumb side of fist against middle of abdomen just above the navel. Grasp fist with other hand. Give quick, upward thrusts. Repeat until object is coughed up. If they become unconscious, call 9-1-1 and begin CPR

Complete Airway Obstruction in Unconscious VictimTreatment:

Check patient for a pulse, if pulseless immediately start CPR.

Bleeding in GeneralBefore initiating any First Aid to control bleeding, be sure to wear the latex gloves included in your First-Aid Kit in order to avoid contact of the victim’s blood with your skin.

If a victim is bleeding,

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Act quickly, have the victim lie down. Elevate the injured limb higher than the victim’s heart unless you suspect a broken bone.

Control bleeding by applying direct pressure on the wound with a sterile pad or clean cloth.

If bleeding is controlled by direct pressure, bandage firmly to protect wound. Check pulse to be sure bandage is not too tight.

If bleeding is not controlled by use of direct pressure, apply a tourniquet only as a last resort and call 9-1-1 immediately.

Nose Bleed To control a nosebleed, have the victim lean forward and pinch the nostrils together until

bleeding stops.

Bleeding Insight/Outside the Mouth To control bleeding inside the cheek, place folded dressings inside the mouth against the

wound. To control bleeding on the outside, use dressings to apply pressure directly to the

wound and bandage so as not to restrict.

InfectionTo prevent infection when treating open wounds, you must:

CLEANSE- the wound and surrounding area gently with mild soap and water or an antiseptic pad; rinse and blot dry with a sterile pad or clean dressing.

TREAT- to protect against contamination with ointment supplied in your First-Aid Kit. COVER- to absorb fluids and protect wound from further contamination with Band-Aids,

gauze, or sterile pads supplied in your First-Aid Kit- (Handle only the edges of sterile pads or dressings)

TAPE- to secure with First-Aid tape (included in your First-Aid Kit) to help keep out dirt and germs.

ACCIDENT REPORTING PROCEDURE

What to report: An incident that causes any player, manager, coach, umpires, or volunteers to receive

medical treatment and/or first aid must be reported to the TLL Safety Officer. This includes even passive treatments such as the evaluation and diagnosis of the extent of the injury.

When to report: All such incidents described above must be reported to the TLL Safety Officer within 24-

48 hours of the incident. The TLL Safety Officer, Misti Doherty can be reached at the following: Cell: 207-

798-1835 Email: CoachMistiD@yahoo.com The TLL Safety Officer’s contact information will be posted at all times at the concession

stand. This information will also be in the safety manual and part of the Team Safety Officers packet.

How to make a Report:Reporting incidents can come in a variety of forms. Most typically, they are telephone conversations, from the Manager to the Safety Officer. Along with the phone call the manager must submit the injury report form. At a minimum, the following information must be provided:

The date, time, and location of the incident.

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The name and phone number of the individual involved. As detailed a description of the incident as possible. The preliminary estimation of the extent of any injuries.

WEATHER SAFETY

Rain:If it begins to rain:

Evaluate the strength of the rain. Is it a light drizzle or is it pouring? Determine the direction the storm is moving. Evaluate the playing field as it becomes more and more saturated. Stop practice if the playing conditions become unsafe – use common sense. If

playing a game, consult with the other manager and the umpire to formulate a decision.

Lightning:In effort to decrease likelihood of lightning strike occurrence, Managers and coaches are encouraged to use the WeatherBug app for smart phones which provides real-time, neighborhood specific severe weather alerts including on the spot Spark lightening detection.

The average lightning stroke is 5-6 miles long with up to 30 million volts at 100,000 amps’ flow in less than a tenth of a second.

The average thunderstorm is 6-10 miles wide and moves at a rate of 25 miles per hour. Once the leading edge of a thunderstorm approaches to within 10 miles, you are at immediate risk due to the possibility of lightning strokes coming from the storm’s overhanging anvil cloud. This fact is the reason that many lightning deaths and injuries occur with clear skies overhead.

If you can HEAR, SEE OR FEEL a THUNDERSTORM: Suspend all games and practices immediately. Stay away from metal including fencing and bleachers. Do not hold metal bats. Get players to walk, not run to their parent’s or designated driver’s cars and

wait for your decision on whether or not to continue the game or practice.

Hot Weather: One thing we do get in Torrington CT is hot weather. Precautions must be taken in order

to make sure the players on your team do not dehydrate or hyperventilate. Suggest players take drinks of water when coming on and going off the field between

innings. If a player looks distressed while standing in the hot sun, substitute that player and

get him/her into the shade of the dugout A.S.A.P. If a player should collapse as a result of heat exhaustion, call 9-1-1immediately. Get the

player to drink water and use the instant ice bags supplied in your First-Aid Kit to cool him/her down until the emergency medical team arrives.

Ultra-Violet Ray Exposure:

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This kind of exposure increases and athlete’s risk of developing a specific type of skin cancer known as melanoma.

The American Academy of Dermatology estimates that children receive 80% of their lifetime sun exposure by the time that they are 18 years old.

Therefore, TLL will recommend the use of sunscreen with a SPF (sun protection factor) of at least 15 as a means of protection from damaging ultra-violet light.

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