A Safety Awareness Program (ASAP) Plan

Little League ID # 00286589

To be Ratified/Approved by MCLL Board of Directors next Board Meeting:

March 17th, 2019

ASAP Plan distributed to all League Volunteers

For additional information see our website at www.mclittleleague.org

Introduction

The goal of the MCLL ASAP (A Safety Awareness Program) Plan is to reduce injuries to players and spectators and to make MCLL a safe environment for youth to grow and learn through the sport of Baseball. Some of the topics covered in the safety plan are very practical and common sense, while others issues are more complex.

The league's safety program involves everyone! If you see a safety hazard or unsafe behavior, it must be reported so the safety concern can be resolved. Anyone with ideas for the safety program is encouraged to share it with the safety officer or the board.

Montgomery County Little League of Maryland, Inc. (MCLL)

MCLL was chartered in December 2012 with an effective date of January 1st, 2013. We are a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization incorporated in the State of Maryland.

The purpose of the organization is to promote and organize instructional youth sports programs (baseball and softball) in which good sportsmanship, fair play and safety will be practiced at all times. This includes, but not limited to, the following:

1. To consider and be responsive to the health, welfare and ability of each player participating in the youth sports programs.
2. To encourage players to continue to develop their skills and understanding of the game in a safe and positive manner.
3. To provide resources and guidance to coaches to assist them in teaching the fundamentals of the game to their players as well as to keep the proper context on the importance of winning and good sportsmanship.

Programs

Following is a brief description of the programs that our organization offers:

1. Tee-Ball is the initial level of programs and covers participants between the ages of 4 to 6. This is the first building block of baseball and at this level we introduce the fundamentals of catching, throwing, hitting, base running and field positions.
2. Minor League A baseball and softball divisions (Coach Pitch) cover players between the ages of 6 to 8 and it is the next step in development. It is here that coach pitching is utilized and players learn the skill needed to hit a thrown pitch while expanding on the lessons learned in Tee Ball. Throughout our entire program the fundamentals are always stressed.
3. Minor League AA baseball and softball divisions cover players between the ages of 8 to 10 and introduces players to pitching, bunting and an expanded focus on fielding skills (greater focus on outfield and infield activity) and hitting. Players also learn how to protect themselves while hitting and getting into a defensive position after completing a pitch. This part of our program is similar to the Minor Leagues in professional baseball and is more competitive than the Coach Pitch Division. Here players are given the opportunity to further develop their skills in a league that focuses more on instruction and less on competition.
4. Minor League AAA baseball and softball divisions cover players between the ages of 9 to 11 and introduces players to modified stealing and an expanded focus on catching skills and game situations. While the main focus is still on instruction and the further development of player skills, there is an increased level of competition between teams.
5. Major League baseball and softball divisions cover players between the ages of 10 to 12 and is reserved for those individuals that have demonstrated the skills needed to succeed in competitive baseball. Upon completion of the spring season, MCLL will participate in the competitive tournament run by Little League International.
6. Intermediate League baseball division covers players between the ages of 11 to 13 and is reserved for those individuals that have demonstrated the skills needed to succeed in competitive baseball. Players are introduced to a larger playing field (70’ bases), a further pitching distance and traditional stealing. Upon completion of the spring season, MCLL will participate in the competitive tournament run by Little League International.
7. Junior League baseball division covers players between the ages of 12 to 14 and is reserved for those individuals that have demonstrated the skills needed to succeed in competitive baseball. Players are introduced to a larger playing field (90’ bases) and a further pitching distance. Upon completion of the spring season, MCLL will participate in the competitive tournament run by Little League International.

Our Fall season begins in mid-August and runs through the middle of October. This program focuses on skill work and learning the fundamentals since coaches have more time to work one on one with players on specific skills. Younger players can continue what they began in the spring. The enthusiasm the younger players have can be nurtured and strengthened each year through this more relaxed training program. Older players who already have the ambition and dream of playing better baseball seize the opportunity of continuing their baseball education. This League is in existence for the players, but it is all the volunteers, coaches, managers, parents, umpires, board members and sponsors who make the experience.

Important Numbers

• Emergency - 911
• Montgomery County Police - Non-emergency (301) 279-8000
• Animal Control - Montgomery County (240) 773-5960
• Poison Control (800) 492-2414
• Montgomery County Rain Line: (301) 765-8787

Board of Directors

Volunteers

Volunteers are the greatest resource Little League has in providing its various programs. Volunteers also pose one of the largest risks to the League since it has been shown that individuals near children may take advantage of that relationship for abusive reasons. Some define child sexual abuse as “the exploitation of a child by an older child, teen or adult for the personal gratification of the abusive individual”. Child abuse can take many forms including touching to non-touching offenses. Child victims are usually made to feel as if they have brought the abuse upon themselves; they are made to feel guilty. For this reason, sexual abuse victims seldom disclose the victimization. Children need to understand that it is never their fault, and both children and adults need to know what they can do to keep it from happening. Anyone can be an abuser and it could happen anywhere. You can help to reduce the risk that it will happen in our league by educating parents, volunteers and children of that possibility. We advise all coaches and other volunteers to not put themselves in a position (such as being alone with a player that is not their child) that would expose them to such allegations.

Background Checks

MCLL requires volunteers to fill out the Little League Volunteer Application and provide a photocopy of their driver’s license in addition to background checks conducted through a third party vendor. Any volunteers that refuse to complete the full application process will not be allowed to participate in that capacity.

MCLL supports and is in full compliance with the background check initiative from Little League International.

Responsibilities Relative to Safety

President

The President of MCLL is responsible for ensuring that the policies and regulations of the MCLL Safety Officer are carried out by the entire membership to the best of his or her abilities.

Safety Officer

The main responsibility of the MCLL Safety Officer is to develop and implement the League’s safety program. The Safety Officer is the link between the Board of Directors of MCLL and its’ managers, coaches, players, spectators and other third parties involved in our programs in regards to safety matters, rules and regulations.

Safety Officer’s responsibilities include:

• Coordinating with team managers in order to provide the safest possible environment for all.
• Assisting parents and individuals with Little League insurance claims and will act as the liaison between the insurance company and the parents and individuals.
• Keeping the Incident Report Log (www.mclittleleague.org/coaches/incident-report). This log will record where accidents and injuries occur, when, to whom, which division, and under whose supervision.
• Summarizing data in the Incident Report Log to determine proper accident prevention in the future.
• Ensuring that each team receives its ASAP Plan and it's First Aid Kit at the beginning of the season and are restocked as needed.
• Make Little League’s “no tolerance with child abuse” and MCLL anti-bullying policy clear to all.
• Inspecting fields with the Field Manager and listing areas needing attention.
• Scheduling First Aid training for all managers and coaches during the pre-season.
• 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 ASAP Plans.
• Making sure safety is a monthly Board Meeting topic, and allowing experienced people to share ideas on improving safety.
• Oversee background check of all volunteers

Managers and Coaches

The Manager is a person appointed by the President of MCLL 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. Additional responsibilities include:

1. The Manager shall always be responsible for the team’s conduct, observance of the official rules of Little League Baseball and deference to the umpires.
2. The Manager is also responsible for the safety of his players. He/she is also ultimately responsible for the actions of designated coaches and the team.
3. 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.
4. Take possession of this ASAP Plan and the First Aid Kit supplied by MCLL.
5. Attend a mandatory training session on First Aid given by MCLL with his/her designated coaches.
6. Coaches Clinic will be held with at least one manager or coach from each team present for the fundamentals training. Cover the basics of safe play with his/her team before starting the first practice. Teach the players the fundamentals of the game while advocating safety. Teach players how to slide before the season starts. Encourage players to bring water bottles to practices and games. Tell parents to bring sunscreen for themselves and their child(ren). Make sure equipment is in working order. If anything is damaged, manager shall contact the equipment officer for a replacement piece if it is supplied by MCLL. Teach the fundamentals of the game to players (catching fly balls, sliding correctly, proper fielding of ground balls, simple pitching motion for balance, etc.) Be open to ideas and suggestions for improvement and/or help. Always have First Aid Kit and Safety Manual on hand and consider the potential safety concerns during a practice or game.

Equipment Manager

The MCLL equipment manager is responsible to get damaged equipment repaired or replaced as reported. Coaches must report equipment requests to their respective Commissioner for action.

MCLL Members

The MCLL Members will adhere to and carry out the policies as set forth in this safety manual.

Incident and Accident Reporting Procedure

There may be times where an incident needs to be reported to MCLL regarding an injury or other safety event. Please submit an incident report online as soon as possible to report the event.

What to report:

Any incident that causes any player, manager, coach, or volunteer to receive medical treatment and/or first aid must be reported to the MCLL Safety Officer. This includes even passive treatment such as the evaluation and diagnosis of the extent of the injury.

Any incident in which a manager, or other MCLL member, fails to follow the safety practices covered in this ASAP plan.

When to report:

All such incidents described above must be reported to the MCLL Safety Officer within 24 hours of the incident. The MCLL Safety Officer, Rob Sharp, can be reached at the following:

• Day Phone: 206-427-2552
• Email: safety@mclittleleague.org

How to make a report:

Reporting incidents can come in a variety of forms. Reports should be made online at http://www.mclittleleague.org/coaches/incident-report. At a minimum, the following information must be provided:

• The name and phone number of the individual involved.
• The date, approximate time and location of the incident.
• As much detail of the incident as possible.
• The preliminary estimation of the extent of any injuries.
• The name and phone number of the person reporting the incident.

Safety Officer’s Responsibilities with Incident Reports:

Within 24 hours of receiving the MCLL Incident Form, the MCLL Safety Officer or designee will contact the injured party or the party’s parents and:

• Verify the information received.
• Obtain any other information deemed necessary.
• Check on the status of the injured party; and
• Will advise the parent or guardian of the MCLL’s insurance coverage and the provision for submitting any claims, if needed.

Facility Inspections and Survey

MCLL conducts a formal Facility Survey that is updated on an annual basis and submitted to the Little League Headquarters along with this Safety Plan. You may contact the league Safety Officer or other league officials for a copy or access if necessary.

MCLL inspects the fields every year at the beginning of the season for exposed fence wires, dugout conditions, benches, etc. The fields and surrounding areas are also reviewed on a regular basis during the season by the Safety Officer and/or other Board Members. In addition, MCLL Managers, Coaches and Umpires will be required to review the field on which they will be playing before each game to look for and correct any unsafe conditions (holes, broken glass, rocks, equipment, etc.) prior to the start of play. Any field or areas used for league practices shall be inspected for unsafe conditions by team coaches prior to all league practices as well.

Equipment

The Equipment Manager is appointed by the MCLL Board and is responsible for purchasing and distributing equipment to the individual teams. The equipment will be checked when it is issued, but it is the Manager’s responsibility to maintain it. Managers should inspect equipment before each game and each practice.

The Equipment Manager will promptly replace damaged equipment that was supplied by the League. The damaged equipment will be destroyed as to ensure no one gets hurt by mistakenly using damaged equipment. Some kids like to bring their own gear. This equipment can only be used if it meets the requirements outlined in the Little League Rule Book.

At the end of the season, all equipment must be returned to the MCLL Equipment Manager. All First Aid Kits must be turned in with equipment or to the MCLL Safety Officer.

Safety Rules and Policies

All MCLL members, but especially Managers and Coaches, are expected to follow and enforce the following safety requirements.

If a manager knowingly disregards the safety of their players, it is the responsibility of other coaches or managers that witness such activity to report it to the Safety Officer. The incident will be reviewed by the MCLL Board of Directors and discussed with that Manager to determine if any corrective action, including suspension, is warranted.

Player Protection

1. Catchers must wear full helmet with facemask, throat guard, long model chest protector, and shin guards.
2. Male catchers must wear an athletic supporter with cup at all times during all games and practices.
3. Anyone acting in the capacity of catcher during any type of warm-up must wear a full helmet with facemask and throat protector.
4. Players are not allowed to wear metal cleats until the Intermediate Division.
5. Players are not allowed to wear jewelry of any kind during practice or during a game.
6. All players must wear Little League approved protective helmets during batting.
7. Managers and Coaches should encourage parents of players who wear glasses to have their child wear safety glasses.
8. There are no on deck circles in divisions below Intermediate level. The “On Deck Batter” may not take any practice swings until he/she reaches the dirt around home plate. This is also the only place anyone is allowed to swing a bat.
9. Bats at all levels must conform to USA Baseball approved standards with a USA Baseball logo clearly printed on the bat.

Pre-Game

• Make sure players are healthy, rested and alert.
• Make sure players are wearing the proper uniform and equipment (i.e. protective cups, correct cleats, etc.).
• Make sure the equipment is in good working order and is safe.
• Managers and Coaches of both teams will be responsible for walking fields to ensure there are no hazards present.
• Enforce the rule that no bats and balls are permitted on the field until all players have done their proper stretching. (see conditioning section)

During the Game

• Make sure all players carry all gloves and other equipment off the field and to the dugout when their team is up to bat. No equipment shall be left lying on the field, either in fair or foul territory.
• Managers and Coaches should always emphasize that all players need to stay alert and keep their eyes on the ball at all times during practice and games.
• Maintain discipline at all times.
• Be organized.
• Keep players and substitutes sitting on the team’s bench or in the dugout unless participating in the game or preparing to enter the game.
• Make sure catchers are wearing the proper equipment.
• Encourage everyone to think “safety first”.
• Observe the “no on-deck” rule for batters and keep players behind fences at all times. No player should handle a bat in the dugouts at any time.
• Keep players off fences.
• Get players to drink often so they do not dehydrate.
• Do not play children that are ill or injured.
• Attend to children that become injured in a game.
• Do not lose focus by engaging in conversation with parents and passerby’s.

Post Game

• Do not leave the field until every team member has been picked up by a known family member or designated driver.
• Notify parents if their child has been injured no matter how small or insignificant the injury is. There are no exceptions to this rule and doing so protects you, MCLL and Little League.
• Discuss any safety issues with the Safety Officer that occurred before, during or after the game.
• If there is an injury, make sure an incident report is filled out online using the Incident Report Form. By completing the incident report online, The MCLL safety officer and members of the Board will be notified. Managers are encouraged to email incident report updates to safety@mclittleleague.org to keep everyone apprised on the status of players..
• Return the field to the pre-game condition, per MCLL policy.

Lightning Safety Guidance and Policy

Each year in the United States, more than four hundred people are struck by lightning. On average, about 70 people are killed and many others suffer permanent neurological disabilities. Most of these tragedies can be avoided if proper precautions are taken. When thunderstorms threaten, coaches and sports officials must not let the desire to start or complete an athletic activity hinder their judgment when the safety of participants and spectators is in jeopardy. All thunderstorms produce lightning and are dangerous. Many deaths from lightning occur ahead of storms because people wait too long before seeking shelter, or after storms because people return outside too soon. If you hear thunder, you are in danger. Anytime thunder is heard, the thunderstorm is close enough to pose an immediate lightning threat to your location. A thunderstorm can cast lightning up to 10 miles from the edge of a storm, and/or about as far as the sound thunder can carry.

It is important for coaches, officials, parents and volunteers to understand the basic facts about lightning and its dangers. Coaches, officials, parents and volunteers have a responsibility to promote and help enforce this policy. Play it safe every time, our kids’ lives may depend on you!

As follows, the guidelines are Little League International’s and Montgomery County Little League (MCLL) regarding lightning safety is:

Lightning Safety Guidance

• Be proactive and assess the risk level in advance of your scheduled game, activity or event for developing or approaching storms.
• Use the free WeatherBug Mobile App. WeatherBug’s Spark Alert function gives you real-time readings from Earth Networks Total Lightning Network to tell you how close the nearest lightning is to you.
• For more information on lightning safety, visit NOAA’s website.

Lightning Policy

• With the first sound of thunder or visible lightning – clear the field;
• When lightning is determined to be within 10 miles, play shall be suspended immediately. Players, managers, coaches and other volunteers shall be cleared from the dugout and all external field areas entirely. Go to a large enclosed building if one is nearby; go to metal-top cars, with windows rolled up, if no enclosed building is available;
• Once a game/activity has been suspended, all players shall remain completely clear of all field areas and remain so until an “all clear” is issued by the Umpire;
• The “all clear” can only be issued when one or both of the following apply:
  • All lightning/thunder activity has moved beyond the 10-mile radius from the field and so long as no additional lightning is expected to move into the area.
  • At least 30 minutes has elapsed from the last visible lightning strike or the presence of thunder.
• At the discretion of the Umpire the game can be cancelled as a rainout;
• In the event of game cancellation, make sure all players are accounted for and leave with approved persons;

Lightning Emergency Information

• If someone is struck by lightning:
  • Lightning victims do not carry an electrical charge, are safe to handle, and need immediate medical attention.
  • Call 911 for help. Have someone call 911 or your local ambulance service.
  • Give first aid. Begin CPR if necessary.
  • If possible, move the victim to a safer place.

Concussions

A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury caused by a blow or jolt to the head or body that causes the brain to shake. The shaking can cause the brain to not work normally and can result in serious side effects.

If an athlete has a concussion, his/her brain needs time to heal. While an athlete’s brain is still healing, s/he is much more likely to have another concussion. Repeat concussions can increase the time it takes to recover. In rare cases, repeat concussions in young athletes can result in brain swelling or permanent damage to their brain. They can even be fatal.

Did You Know?

• Most concussions occur without loss of consciousness. In fact, only 10 percent of children with concussions report being "knocked out”.
• Even a “ding,” “getting your bell rung,” or what seems to be a mild bump or blow to the head can be serious.
• Athletes who have, at any point in their lives, had a concussion have an increased risk for another concussion.
• Young children and teens are more likely to get a concussion and take longer to recover than adults.
• Concussions affect people differently. While most athletes with a concussion recover quickly and fully, some will have symptoms that last for days, or even weeks. A more serious concussion can last for months or longer.

Each year, thousands of children and youth are diagnosed with concussions and only half are sports related. Some of the symptoms may worsen over a matter of days, and it is common for new symptoms to appear in the days following the injury.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF CONCUSSION

Signs and symptoms of concussion can show up right after the injury or may not appear or be noticed until days or weeks after the injury.

If an athlete reports one or more symptoms of concussion listed below after a bump, blow, or jolt to the head or body, s/he should be kept out of play the day of the injury and until a health care professional, experienced in evaluating for concussion, says s/he is symptom-free and it’s OK to return to play.

SIGNS OBSERVED BY COACHING STAFF

• Appears dazed or stunned
• Is confused about assignment or position
• Forgets an instruction
• Is unsure of game, score, or opponent
• Moves clumsily
• Answers questions slowly
• Loses consciousness (even briefly)
• Shows mood, behavior, or personality changes
• Can’t recall events prior to hit or fall
• Can’t recall events after hit or fall

SYMPTOMS REPORTED BY ATHLETES

• Headache or “pressure” in head
• Nausea or vomiting
• Balance problems or dizziness
• Double or blurry vision
• Sensitivity to light
• Sensitivity to noise
• Feeling sluggish, hazy, foggy, or groggy
• Concentration or memory problems
• Confusion
• Just not “feeling right” or “feeling down”

CONCUSSION DANGER SIGNS

In rare cases, a dangerous blood clot may form on the brain in a person with a concussion and crowd the brain against the skull. An athlete should receive immediate medical attention if after a bump, blow, or jolt to the head or body s/he exhibits any of the following danger signs:

• One pupil larger than the other
• Is drowsy or cannot be awakened
• A headache that not only does not diminish, but gets worse
• Weakness, numbness, or decreased coordination
• Repeated vomiting or nausea
• Slurred speech
• Convulsions or seizures
• Cannot recognize people or places
• Becomes increasingly confused, restless, or agitated
• Has unusual behavior
• Loses consciousness (even a brief loss of consciousness should be taken seriously)

WHAT SHOULD YOU DO IF YOU THINK YOUR ATHLETE HAS A CONCUSSION?

If you suspect that an athlete has a concussion, remove the athlete from play and seek medical attention. Do not try to judge the severity of the injury yourself. Keep the athlete out of play the day of the injury and until a health care professional, experienced in evaluating for concussion, says s/he is symptom-free and it’s OK to return to play.

Concussion testing and treatment can be provided at local emergency rooms. Clinic specializing in concussions are the Headfirst Clinic (Olney) and the Children’s Hospital Head Clinic (Rockville).

Rest is key to helping an athlete recover from a concussion. Exercising or activities that involve a lot of concentration, such as studying, working on the computer, or playing video games, may cause concussion symptoms to reappear or get worse. After a concussion, returning to sports and school is a gradual process that should be carefully managed and monitored by a healthcare professional.

It’s better to miss one game than the whole season. For more information on concussions, visit: www.cdc.gov/Concussion.

Bullying

The Montgomery County Little League has adopted an anti-bully policy as a part of our safety plan, we consider the emotional well being of little league players to be as important as their physical health. Bullying may lead to anxiety and low self-esteem in youth who are targeted, but it also causes other youth to feel unsafe. Youth of all ages deserve the right to feel safe and supported by all MCLL Board Members, managers, coaches, players, umpires, volunteers, and parents. Creating an atmosphere where our youth can flourish is everyone's responsibility.

Bullying is behavior by one person or a group of people with the intent to ridicule, harass, humiliate or intimidate another person during league games, events and/or at league fields. Verbal Bullying involves repetitious behavior and includes the use of words and gestures. Emotional Bullying involves rejection, terrorizing, extorting, humiliating, rating/ranking personal characteristics such as race, disability, ethnicity, or perceived sexual orientation. Physical Bullying can include a single incident of pushing, hitting or kicking a person or interfering with their property.

If a player is being bullied it must be reported to a team manager, coach, player agent, league commissioner, president or other league official. In addition the incident should be reported on the league’s online incident report http://www.mclittleleague.org/coaches/incident-report.

Safety Practices

Conditioning and Stretching

Conditioning is an intricate part of accident prevention. Extensive studies on the effect of conditioning, commonly known as “warm-ups” have demonstrated that the stretching and contracting of muscles just before an athletic activity improved 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 over-extension. Stretching should never be done forcefully, but rather in a gradual manner to encourage looseness and flexibility.

Hints on Stretching:

• Stretch necks, backs, arms, thighs, legs and calves.
• Don’t ask the child to stretch more than he or she is capable of.
• Hold 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.

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 cardiovascular workout.

Hydration

Good nutrition is important for children. Sometimes, the most important nutrient children need is water – especially when they’re physically active. When children are physically active, their muscles generate heat thereby increasing their body temperature. As their body temperature rises, their cooling mechanism – sweat – kicks in. When sweat evaporates, the body is cooled. Unfortunately, children get hotter than adults during physical activity and their body’s cooling mechanism is not as efficient as adults. If fluids aren’t replaced, children can become overheated.

We usually think about dehydration in the summer months when hot temperatures shorten the time it takes for children to become overheated. But keeping children well hydrated is just as important in the winter months. Additional clothing worn in the colder weather makes it difficult for sweat to evaporate, so the body does not cool as quickly. It does not matter if it’s January or July; thirst is not an indicator of fluid needs. Therefore, children must be encouraged to drink fluids even when they don’t feel thirsty. Managers and coaches should schedule drink breaks every 15 to 30 minutes during practices on hot days, and should encourage players to drink between every inning.

During any activity water is an excellent fluid to keep the body well hydrated. If a player should collapse as a result of heat exhaustion, call 9-1-1 immediately. 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. MCLL recommends the use of sunscreen with a SPF (sun protection factor) of at least 15 as a means of protection from damaging ultra violet light.

Keeping our Parks Safe

There is nothing better than watching a bunch of kids playing baseball, especially if it’s a family affair. But along with this great experience comes the responsibility of making the parks and ball fields safe for the players as well as the spectators.

Here are some important guidelines:

Traffic and Cars: Parents and Coaches should be reminded to be careful and aware when driving in parking lots since it only takes a few seconds for a preventable incident to occur. Any unsafe driving should be reported to the league. It is also a good idea to have parents inform relatives and friends the importance of safe driving around our fields.

Kids and Bicycles: It is great to see kids riding bicycles but the ball field is not the place to do it. If a child is riding a bike it needs to be away from the players and spectators.

Strangers in the Park: We have all seen reports about a child being snatched from a school playground, daycare center, or sports field. Parents and Coaches need to be aware of the whereabouts of their players and safeguard them from any such dangers. According to news reports, a typical snatcher tries to befriend a child and then try to isolate the child from others. At a typical baseball game, the focus of most managers, coaches and spectators is watching the game on the field and a snatcher takes advantage of that. Suspicious activity should be reported to the Montgomery County Police. In addition, parents must keep an eye on their younger children who are at the park and should not leave children unattended at the playgrounds.

Field Conditions

If it begins to rain, evaluate the strength of the rain and 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. If playing a game, consult with the other manager or umpire to formulate a decision.

Health and Medical – Giving First Aid

What is First Aid?

First aid 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. The average response time on 9-1-1 calls is 5 to 7 minutes so 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 First Aid kit will become part of the Team’s equipment package and shall be taken to all practices, games (whether season or post-season) and any other MCLL Little League event. To replenish materials in the Team First Aid Kit, the Manager or designated coaches must contact the MCLL Safety Officer. (See contact information and address in phone# section of this Safety Manual or in First Aid Kit.)

First Aid Kits must be turned in at the end of this season along with equipment bags. This is so the kit can be checked for completeness and refurbished if necessary.

Some Important First Aid Do’s and Don’ts

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 (blood, black and blue, deformity of joint, etc.)
• 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 broken bones.
• 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 beverages (other than water).
• 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 Number

The 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.

When the call is made, please be sure that you or another caller perform these four steps:

• First Dial 9-1-1 or ask an assistant or parent to call
• Give the dispatcher the necessary information.
• Continue to care for the victim until the professional help arrives.
• Appoint somebody to go to the street and look for the ambulance and fire engine and flag them down if necessary. This saves valuable time and every minute counts.

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. If the victim experiences any of the following symptoms, call 9-1-1 anyway:

• Is or becomes unconscious.
• Has trouble breathing or is breathing in a strange way.
• 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 injuries to the head, neck or back and/or possible broken bones.

Checking the Victim

Conscious Victims

If the victim is conscious, ask what happened. Look for other life-threatening conditions and conditions that need care or might become life threatening. The victim may be able to tell you what happened and how he or she feels. This information helps determine what care may be needed. This check has two steps:

1. Talk to the victim and to any people standing by who saw the accident take place.
2. Check the victim from head to toe so you do not overlook any problems.
3. 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.
4. Do not ask the victim to move, and do not move the victim yourself.
5. Examine the scalp, face, ears, nose and mouth.
6. Look for cuts, bruises, bumps and depressions.
7. Watch for changes in consciousness.
8. Notice if the victim is drowsy, not alert, or confused.
9. Look for changes in the victim’s breathing. A healthy person breathes regularly, quietly and easily. 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.
10. Notice how the skin looks and feels. Note if the skin is reddish, bluish, pale or gray.
11. Feel with the back of your hand on the forehead to see if the skin feels unusually damp, dry, cool, or hot.
12. Ask the victim again about the areas that hurt.
13. Ask the victim to move each part of the body that doesn’t hurt.
14. Check the shoulders by asking the victim to shrug them.
15. Check the chest and abdomen by asking the victim to take a deep breath.
16. Ask the victim if he or she can move fingers, hands and arms.
17. Check the hips and legs in the same way.
18. Watch the victim’s face for signs of pain and listen for sounds of pain such as gasps, moans or cries.
19. Look for odd bumps or depressions.
20. Think of how the body usually looks. If you are not sure if something is out of shape, check it against the other side of the body.
21. 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.
22. When the victim feels ready, help him/her to stand up.

Unconscious Victims

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

Bleeding in General

Before initiating any First Aid to control bleeding, be sure to wear 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:

1. Act quickly. Have the victim lie down; elevate the injured limb higher than the victim’s heart unless you suspect a broken bone.
2. Control bleeding by applying pressure on the wound with a sterile pad or clean cloth.
3. If bleeding is controlled by direct pressure, bandage firmly to protect wound. Check pulse to be sure bandage is not too tight.
4. 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 Inside and Outside of 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 breathing.

Deep Cuts:

If the cut is deep, stop bleeding, bandage, and encourage the victim to get to a hospital for assessment by a medical professional.

Insect Stings

If the individual has any history of allergic reactions to bites/stings (anaphylaxis) , do not wait for symptoms to appear. Get professional medical help immediately. Call 9-1-1. If breathing difficulties occur, start rescue breathing techniques; if pulse is absent, begin CPR.

Symptoms:

Signs of allergic reaction may include: nausea; severe swelling; breathing difficulties; bluish face, lips and fingernails; shock or unconsciousness.

Treatment for Stings:

1. For mild or moderate symptoms, wash with soap and cold water.
2. Remove stinger or venom sack by gently scraping with fingernail or credit card. Do not remove stinger with tweezers as more toxins from the stinger could be released into the victim’s body.
3. For multiple stings, soak affected area in cool water. Add one tablespoon of baking soda per quart of water.
4. If victim has gone into shock, treat accordingly.

Emergency Treatment for Dental Injuries

Avulsion (entire tooth knocked out):

If a tooth is knocked out, place a sterile dressing directly in the space left by the tooth. Tell the victim to bite down. Dentists can successfully replant a knocked out tooth if they can do so quickly and if the tooth has been cared for properly.

Time is very important. Re-implantation within 30 minutes has the highest degree of success.

Luxation (Tooth in socket, but Wrong Position):

Extruded Tooth – upper tooth hangs down and/or lower tooth raised up.

Reposition tooth in socket using firm finger pressure. Stabilize tooth by gently biting on towel or handkerchief. Transport immediately to dentist. Lateral Displacement – Tooth pushed back or pulled forward. Try to reposition tooth using finger pressure. Victim may require local anesthetic to reposition tooth; if so, stabilize tooth by gently biting on towel or handkerchief. Transport to dentist immediately.

Intruded Tooth – Tooth pushed into gum – looks short. Do nothing – avoid any repositioning of tooth. Transport to dentist immediately. Fracture (broken tooth) – If tooth is totally broken in half, save the broken portion and bring to the dental office as described under Avulsion. Stabilize portion of tooth left in mouth by gently biting on a towel or handkerchief to control bleeding. Should extreme pain occur, limit contact with other teeth, air or tongue. Pulp nerve may be exposed, which is extremely painful to athlete. Save all fragments of fractured tooth as described under Avulsion. Transport patient and tooth fragments to dentist immediately in the plastic baggie supplied in your First Aid kit.

Prescription Medications

Do not, at any time, administer any kind of prescription medicine. This is the parent’s responsibility and FCLL does not want to be held liable, nor do you, in case the child has an adverse reaction to the medications.

Asthma and Allergies

Many children suffer from asthma and/or allergies. Allergy symptoms can manifest themselves to look like the child has a cold or flu while children with asthma usually have difficult time breathing when they become active. Allergies are usually treated with prescription medications. If a child is allergic to insect stings/bites or certain types of food, you must know about it because these allergic reactions can become life threatening. Likewise, a child with asthma needs to be watched. If a child starts to have asthma attack, have him/her stop playing immediately and calm him/her down until he/she is able to breathe normally. If the asthma attack persists, dial 9-1-1 and request emergency service.

Exercise-Induced Asthma Symptoms

Asthma has 2 components: the underlying chronic inflammation and the periodic attacks. The tendency to have asthma runs in families and that some people are born with it. In exercise induced asthma the trigger typically is mouth breathing during exercise. The attack is similar in many ways to an allergic reaction.

Because asthma is a type of allergic reaction, it is sometimes called reactive airway disease. Sports and games that require continuous activity or are played in cold weather are most likely to trigger an asthma attack. Symptoms usually begin about 5-20 minutes after beginning to exercise. The symptoms usually peak about 5-10 minutes after stopping exercise, and then gradually diminish. The symptoms are often gone within an hour, but they may last longer. Symptoms include one or a combination of the following:

• Coughing
• Chest tightness
• Prolonged shortness of breath
• Wheezing
• Chest pain
• Extreme fatigue

Insurance Policies

Little League accident insurance covers only those activities approved or sanctioned by Little League International, Incorporated. The MCLL insurance policy is designed to supplement a parent’s existing family policy.

Explanation of Coverage

The Little League’s insurance policy is designed to afford protection to all participants at the most economical cost to MCLL. It can be used to supplement other insurance carried under a family policy or insurance provided by a parent’s employer. If there is no other coverage, Little League insurance which is purchased by MCLL, takes over and provides benefits (after a $50 deductible per claim) for all covered injury treatment costs up to the maximum stated benefits. This plan makes it possible to offer exceptional, low-cost protection with assurance to parents that adequate coverage is in force at all times during the season.

How the insurance works

1. First have the child’s parents file a claim under the insurance policy;
2. Should the family’s insurance policy not fully cover the injury treatment, the Little League policy will help pay the difference, after a $50 deductible per claim, up to the maximum stated benefits.
3. If the child is not covered by any family insurance, the Little League Policy becomes primary and will provide benefits for all covered injury treatment costs, after a $50 deductible per claim, up to the maximum benefits of the policy.
4. Treatment of dental injuries can extend beyond the normal fifty-two week period if dental work must be delayed due to physiological changes of a growing child. Benefits will be paid at the time treatment is given, even though it may be some years later. Maximum dollar benefit is $500 for eligible dental treatment after the normal fifty-two week period, subject to the $50 deductible per claim.

Filing a Claim

When filing a claim, all medical costs should be fully itemized. If no insurance is in effect, a letter from the parent or claimant’s employer explaining the lack of Group or Employer insurance must accompany a claim forms. On dental claims, it will be necessary to fill out a Major Medical Form, as well as a Dental Form, and then submit them to the insurance company of the claimant. “Accident damage to whole, sound, normal teeth as a direct result of an accident” must be stated on the form and bills.

Forward a copy of the insurance company’s response to Little League Headquarters. Include the claimant’s name, League ID, and year of the injury on the form. Claims must be filed with the MCLL Safety Officer. He/she forwards them to Little League Baseball, Incorporated, PO Box 3485, Williamsport, PA 17701. Claim officers can be contacted at (717) 327-1674 and fax (717) 326-1074. Contact the MCLL Safety Officer for more information.

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Emergency Contact Numbers

Emergency

Montgomery County Police/Fire/EMT: 911

Montgomery County Little League

Phone/Fax: (301) 250-1100

P.O. Box 1833

Germantown, MD 20875

Safety Committee

Safety Officer, James Reinhardt - 203-644-0048

Equipment Manager - Jason Lucas, Upper County

Equipment Manager - Ron Sharp, Lower COunty

President of MCLL, Jason Arnold

MCLL Board of Directors Officers

President - Jason Arnold

Vice-President - Darren Petrie

Vice-President - Todd Patterson

Player Agent - Ron Altieri, Upper County

Player Agent - Jason Orsin, Lower County

Treasurer - Mike Mazza

Secretary - Jason Lucas

District 2 Staff

District Administrator - 443-340-8924

450 Robins Way

Westminster MD 21158

District Safety Officer - 443-285-1036

Little League Regional Office

LL East Regional Office - (860) 585-4730

Fax – LL East Regional Office - (860) 585-4734

335 Mix Street

Bristol, Connecticut 06010

Little League Child Protection Program

The “Protecting Young Victims from Sexual Abuse and Safe Sport Act of 2017” mandates that all amateur sports organizations, which participate in an interstate or international amateur athletic competition and whose membership includes any adult who is in regular contact with an amateur athlete who is a minor must report suspected child abuse, including sexual abuse, within 24 hours to law enforcement. The safety and well-being of all participants in the Little League® program is paramount. As adults, we want to ensure that the young people playing in the Little League program are able to grow up happy, healthy and, above all, safe. Whether they are our children, or the children of others, each of us has a responsibility to protect them. Dealing with child abuse is a major concern for everyone involved in Little League, from the Little League International staff to the local league volunteers.

Definition of Abuse

The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, a leading national child protection advocacy group, defines child abuse as “the physical or emotional injury of a child (17 years old or younger) by a person who is responsible for the child’s welfare.” Although Little League recognizes emotional abuse as a serious offense that should never be tolerated within the organization, the primary objective of this program is more specific: the protection of Little Leaguers from child sexual abuse, as well as the protection of all adults in the organization from being placed in difficult or uncomfortable situations with the children in their care.

Myths and Stereotypes

Child abuse knows no social, economic, or geographic boundaries, but there are several statistics at our disposal to help us identify warning signals. What we need to do is separate these facts from the stereotypes that have surrounded child abuse for many years. Let’s look at some of the fiction and fact.

“Sex abusers are dirty old men.” Not true. While sex abusers cut across socioeconomic levels, educational levels and race, the age of a sex offenders are often in their 30s.

“Strangers are responsible for most of the sexual abuse.” Not true again. Fact: 80 to 85 percent of all sexual abuse cases in the US are committed by an individual familiar to the victim. Less than 20 percent of all abusers are strangers.

“Most sex abusers suffer from some form of serious mental illness or psychosis.” Not true. The actual figure is more like 10 percent, almost the same as the figure found in the general population of the United States.

“Most sex abusers are homosexuals.” Also, not true. Most are heterosexual.

“Children usually lie about sexual abuse, anyway.” Not true. In fact, children rarely lie about being sexually abused. If they say it, don’t ignore it.

“It only happens to girls.” Again, not true. While females do comprise the largest number of sexual abuse victims, it is now believed that the number of male victims is much higher than reported.

“Sexual abuse can only happen when physical contact is made.” Not true. While some examples of sexual abuse do involve contact, non-contact sexual abuse is just as dangerous. This can include indecent exposure, voyeurism, encouraging children to behave in sexually inappropriate ways, and more.

“Sexual abuse can only be committed by adults.” Not true. Children may also commit sexual abuse against other children.

Education/Prevention of Child Abuse

Education is the most important tool for both our children and our adults. It empowers them to recognize potentially compromising situations, and it places a barrier between abusers and their victims. Here are a few education and prevention suggestions for our Little League volunteers and children. Adhered to properly, these guidelines can enable children and adults to better protect themselves.

General Guidelines

Rides — Children dropped off too early or picked up late are targets. Little League parents and volunteers should be encouraged to pick up and drop off on time. And children should be warned about strangers; about not riding with them, about telling someone if they’re approached by them.

Access — Controlling access to areas where children are present, such as the dugout or locker rooms, protects them from harm by outsiders. It’s not easy to control the access of large outdoor facilities, but visitors could be directed to a central point within the facility. Individuals should not be allowed to wander through the area without the knowledge of the Little League volunteers.

Lighting — Child sexual abuse is more likely to happen in the dark. The lighting of fields, parking lots and all indoor facilities where Little League functions are held should be bright enough so that participants can identify individuals as they approach, and observers can recognize abnormal situations.

Travel — When traveling with the team, make sure that children are sharing rooms with Little Leaguers of the same age. Girls’ rooms should not be adjacent to boys’ rooms, and rooms should not have adjoining access, either between children or children and adults.

Shower and Toilet Facilities — Most Little Leaguers are capable of using toilet facilities on their own, so there should be no need for an adult to accompany a child into restroom areas. There can sometimes be special circumstances under which a child requires assistance to toilet facilities, for instance within the Tee Ball and Challenger divisions, but there should still be adequate privacy for that child. Again, we can utilize the “buddy system” here.

Reporting of Child Abuse

No matter how much education and prevention we put in place to stop child abuse, it can still happen. In the unfortunate instance that a case of child sexual abuse is suspected and/or reported, specific steps should be in place to deal with the situation. Let’s look at these.

• Reporting — The “Protecting Young Victims from Sexual Abuse and Safe Sport Act of 2017” mandates that all amateur sports organizations, which participate in an interstate or international amateur athletic competition and whose membership includes any adult who is in regular contact with an amateur athlete who is a minor must report suspected child abuse, including sexual abuse, within 24 hours to law enforcement. An individual who is required, but fails, to report suspected child sexual abuse is subject to criminal penalties. If an individual suspects a case of abuse within their league, they should report it to the appropriate child services organization and/or local law enforcement as well as their league president and District Administrator. Information regarding reporting child abuse can be found at LittleLeague.org/Player-Safety.

To report suspected child abuse in Montgomery County call:

Montgomery County Department of Social Services (240) 777-4417

Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office: (240) 777-7000

• Investigating — Little League volunteers should not attempt to investigate suspected abuse on their own. An individual and alternate with significant professional background should be chosen by the league from the community to receive and act on abuse allegations. These individuals will act in a confidential manner, and serve as the league’s liaison with the local law enforcement community.

• Suspending/Terminating — When an allegation of abuse is made against a Little League volunteer, it is the duty of the organization to protect the children from any possible further abuse by keeping the alleged abuser away from children in the program. If the allegations are substantiated, the next step is clear: Assuring that the individual will not have any further contact with the children in the league. The Nonprofit Risk Management Center urges Little League organizations to develop policies on suspension and termination of volunteers with a lawyer who can advise about their effects on the rights of the alleged abuser.

• Immunity from liability — Concern is often expressed over the potential for criminal or civil liability if a report of abuse is subsequently found to be unsubstantiated. The State of Maryland provides immunity from liability to those who report suspected child abuse in “good faith” whether substantiated or not. Little League policies also prohibit retaliation of any kind when a good faith report of child abuse is made.