Welcome to Spring Season 2022 with Oceanside American Little League!!

In an effort to help our managers and coaches comply with our safety standards, our Board of Directors has prepared and approved the enclosed Safety Plan that all Managers, Coaches and volunteers are required to follow throughout the season. Oceanside American Little League will distribute a paper copy of this Safety Plan to all Managers, Coaches, Board Members, and District Administrator.

Please read the Safety Plan carefully so you are familiarized with OALL safety requirements. Ensure to keep the Plan available at all times when at practice and games to utilize as a reference guide in the event a situation may arise. In the event you have any questions or concerns in regards to the Safety Plan, I or any other Board Member will gladly assist you in providing information and guidance. The OALL Board of Directors is committed to maintaining the highest of standards for a safe environment for all of our players and families.

Safety of our players is a number one priority for Little League and it is the responsibility of our volunteers to work together as a team to ensure a consistent and positive enforcement of our Safety Plan. Most importantly, please ensure that any and all accidents are immediately reported to either myself or a Board Member on duty.

We also encourage any suggestions you may have to help maximize our Safety Plan and a “Safety Suggestion Box” is available at the snack bar. Please feel free to contact me directly with any recommendations for consideration of the Board. We look forward to working with you all to make this season the best yet!

                                                          Sincerely,

                                                               Shannon Spencer

                                           Oceanside American Little League

                                           Safety Officer Cell: (310) 895-4188

                                                Email:Oallsafetyofficer@gmail.com

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Cover Sheet…………………………………………………………………………………………………..……..….P.1

Safety Officer Letter…………………………………………………………………………….……………….....P.2

Table of Content.………………………………………………………………………………….………..……..…P.3

Important Phone Numbers and Contact Information …….………………………………………..P.4

ACCIDENT  REPORTING PROCEDURES

Handling, Reporting and Returning from Injuries……..…………………………………….…….…P.5,6

GENERAL RULES AND GUIDELINES

Do’s and Don’ts………………………………………………………………………………………………….……P.6

Communicable Disease Procedures………………………………………………………………..……….P.6

Concussion Procedures and Return to Play Steps..…………………………………………….…….P.8

Reporting Hazards………………………………………………………………………………………….……....P.9

Snack Bar Health and Safety Rules and Regulations………………………………………………...P.9

Batting Cage Safety Rules………………………………………………………………..………………………P.10

Lighting Precautionary Procedures………………………………………………………………….……...P.10

First Aid Kit Inventory List………………………………………………………………….…..……………....P.10

General Safety Code……………………………………………………………………………………………..…P.11-13

Code of Conduct………………………………………………………………………………………….…….…….P. 13

ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

President and Safety officer…………………………………………………………………………………..P. 14

Manager (Pre-season/In-season checklist)..…………………………………………….………...….P.15,16

Volunteer Application Forms……………………………………………………………………..…………..P.16

Child Protection Program (Mandated Reporting of Child Abuse)…………………………... P.16

Covid-19 Information and Protocol ....……………………………………………………………….……P.17,18

Clinics and Training Links.……………………………………………………………………………………….P.19,20

ASAP Incident/Injury Tracking Report..…………………………………………...………….………….P.21

Concussion Information Sheet…………………………….…………..………………………….…….…..P.22

2022 Volunteer Forms ……………………………………….………………………………………….……...P.23,24

IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS AND CONTACT INFORMATION

Oceanside Police & Fire Emergency:               911

Oceanside Police & Fire Non-Emergency:      (760) 435-4901

City of Oceanside Parks & Rec Department: (760) 435-5041

INJURY PROCEDURES

How to handle injuries, reporting and returning after injury.

If a player is injured during a game, practice or league activity that may or may not require medical attention, the following steps should be followed:

• Administer any initial first aid treatment (if necessary)
• Be sure to have the player’s medical release onsite or easily accessible so anyone who may treat the player is aware of any allergies or special conditions
• Contact the player’s parent or legal guardian if they are not onsite at the time of the incident
• Document the incident with as much detail as possible using any league-created form or utilize the ASAP Incident/Injury Tracking Report.(attached)
• If medical attention is needed, be sure to have Accident Notification Claim Forms on hand to provide to the family (only for those leagues enrolled in the AIG Accident coverage for Little League) and explain the local league’s Accident Insurance, whether they have it through the AIG group program for Little League or through another source.
• If a player has to go see a doctor/ER/clinic for an injury, for any length of time, they need to provide written permission from a physician or other accredited medical provider for a full return to baseball/sports activity.
• In cases involving a possible concussion, the league must adhere to their respective state law with respect to removal of the player and return to play protocols after being released by a physician. It is recommended a player suspected of sustaining a concussion be removed for at least the remainder of that day and then comply with their respective state law for return to play guidelines. An athlete who has sustained a concussion shall complete a graduated return to play protocol of being under the supervision of a licensed health care provider for 7 consecutive days.

All injuries are to be taken seriously, and volunteers serving as managers and coaches are responsible for making the health and safety of the players the top priority. During all Little League functions, where a team of players is participating as a group, it is the responsibility of the manager and coaches to be advocates for safe behavior for each of the players on their team.

During Little League games, if a player sustains an injury and is removed from the game, a team manager is not permitted to return said player to the game without first having a medical professional at the game site clear the player. If the player does return to the game after being removed due to injury, he/she is required to complete mandatory play, if applicable.

GENERAL RULES AND GUIDELINES

Do’s and DON’Ts

1. DON’T administer any medications to the injured person.
2.  DON’T provide any food or beverages (other than water or sports drink) during practices or games.
3. DO administer first aid if necessary.
4. DO ask for help if you're not sure or not qualified for certain procedures (CPR, Heimlich).
5. DON’T Transport injured individuals except in extreme emergencies.
6. DON’T Leave an unattended child at a practice or game.
7. DO report any present or potential safety hazard to the Safety Officer immediately

Communicable Disease Procedures

1. If bleeding is involved with the injury, it must be controlled and wound covered. If excessive amounts of blood have stained the uniform, it must be changed before the player can continue play.
2. Routinely use gloves to prevent exposure when in contact with blood or other body fluids are present.
3. Immediately wash hands and other skin surfaces if contaminated with blood or body fluids.
4. Clean and sanitize all blood contaminated surfaces and/or equipment. (1 to 10 parts bleach solution)
5. Managers, coaches and volunteers with open wounds should refrain from direct contact until conditions are resolved.
6. Follow accepted guidelines in the immediate control of bleeding and disposal when handling bloody dressings. (Use the red biohazard disposable bags available in the Snack Bar First Aid Kits)

Concussion Procedures

The California Law is titled “Youth Sports Concussion Protocols,” became effective January 1, 2017, and is found in the California Health Safety Code under the section referencing “Adolescent Health” (Cal Health and Safety Code §124235).

Section 124235 applies to “youth sports organizations” which includes any organization, business, non-profit entity or local government agency that sponsors or conducts amateur sports competitions, training camps, or clubs in which persons seventeen (17) years of age or younger participate: youth sports organizations are required to immediately remove an athlete who is suspected of sustaining a concussion or other head injury in an athletic activity for the remainder of the day. The athlete shall not be permitted to return to the athletic activity until being evaluated by and receiving written clearance to return to athletic activity from, a licensed health care provider. An athlete who has sustained a concussion shall complete a graduated return to play protocol of being under the supervision of a licensed health care provider for 7 consecutive days. If an athlete seventeen (17) years of age or younger has been removed from athletic activity due to a suspected concussion, the youth sports organization shall notify a parent or a guardian of that athlete of the time and date of the injury, the symptoms observed, and any treatment provided to that athlete for the injury.

Reporting Hazards to the Safety Officer

If a parent, player or volunteer should have a safety concern of a possible hazard, they may report the hazard to a Board Member on Duty or call the Safety Officer directly.

OALL Safety Officer, Shannon Spencer Cell: (310) 895-4188

It is the duty of all managers to inform their players of any items found on or around the playing fields that may cause bodily harm or injury such as medications, used syringes, fireworks or weapons. Such items should not be touched but reported immediately to an adult and/or board member so that the proper authority can be notified.

Snack Bar Health and Safety Rules and Regulations

All workers in the Snack Bar must be informed on proper food handling. The menu shall be posted and approved by the Board of Directors. All snack bar health and safety procedures shall be posted inside the snack bar in a conspicuous location.

Standard practices for operating a safe and healthy snack bar include:

• Parents who opt-in for snack bar shifts and are unable to fulfill their shift, can provide someone at least 18 years of age to work the shift or forfeit their snack bar payment.
• No one under the age of 16 is allowed to work the snack bar fryer.
• All snack bar works must have hair pulled back and close toe shoes.
• All junior workers must be 14 years of age and in high school to work in snack bar.
• Junior workers are not allowed to handle money.
• Snack bar workers are not allowed to leave the snack bar during shifts.
• 'Washing Hands' signs must be posted at all times.
• The location and safe operation of the fire extinguisher must be known to all who work in the snack bar.
• All persons on duty must be able to easily identify the breaker box.
• The First Aid kit must be completely stocked at all times and all persons must be able to easily identify the location of the kit at all times.
• A designated Board Member will be required to take a Food Care Handlers class.

Batting Cage Safety Rules

• Players must wear helmets at all times when inside the batting cages.
• The gate to the cages must be closed at all times.
• Ensure the gates are closed and locked when leaving the cages.
• Only one batter and one pitcher are allowed inside the cage at all times.
• The manager or a coach must be present while players are at batting cages.
• Absolutely no horseplay inside or around the cages.
• Please be courteous and share cage time equally with other Players.

Lightning Precautionary Procedure

In the event of a lightning storm, use the following procedures:

• Immediately leave the premises and seek indoor shelter.
• Refrain from handling or being near bats, fences, light poles, electric poles, and trees.             

OALL has a policy in place that in the event of an upcoming thunderstorm warning, all games will be cancelled.

First aid kits inventory

All First Aid Kits should include the following:

1. 1 Roll cloth tape
2. 1 Roll gauze
3. 10 Finger bandages
4. Extra-large bandage
5. 6 Antiseptic wipes
6. 2 Cold packs
7. 10 Gauze Sponges
8. 5 Neosporin packages
9. 2 Pair Latex gloves
10. 1 Combine dressing

Additional supplies are available for all First Aid kits. Please contact Safety Officer, Shannon Spencer, (310) 895-4188 with any first aid needs. Fully stocked First Aid kits are also available at the snack bar and the Junior Field Equipment Room. Included in these kits are bulk dressings for large injuries, disposable bags for infectious waste, and CPR barrier mask.

General Safety Code

The following Safety Code is designed to create a safer environment for kids and all participants of Little League Baseball.

1. Responsibility for safety procedures should be that of an adult member of OALL.
2. All participants are to be prepared in advance of all games and practices in the event of an emergency as to first aid and/or medical services.
3. The managers or at least one coach will have training in First Aid and/or CPR; Copies of cards will be with the Safety Officer.
4. First aid kits will be issued to each Manager and will be present at all games and practices. These kits will be attached to the equipment bag for easy access during an emergency. Additional first aid supplies will be available at the snack bar, equipment room or by contacting Shannon Spencer, Safety Officer at (310) 895-4188.
5. If a Manager is not present at a game or practice, an adult who knows First Aid and/or CPR is required to be present (coach, parent, and/or team mom).
6. No games or practices should be held when weather or field conditions are questionable or dangerous.
7. Fields/dugouts/batting cages should be inspected frequently for holes, damage, stones, glass and other foreign objects.
8. Team equipment should be stored within the team dugout or behind screens and not within the area defined by the umpire as "fair play".
9. Only Players, Managers, Coaches and Umpires are permitted on the playing field or in the dugout during games. (Team moms are allowed in dugout for lower divisions)
10. A specified Player should be assigned to keep bats and loose equipment off the field of play, or the team manager and coaches may perform this function.
11. A procedure should be established for retrieving foul balls batted out of the playing area.
12. During practice and games, all players should be alert and watching the batter on each pitch.
13. During warm-up drills, Players should be spaced so that no one is endangered by wild throws or missed catches.

14. All pre-game warm-ups should be performed within the confines of the playing field and in the dirt areas east of the fields. There shall be no throwing of balls in the grass areas that are frequented by spectators between the parking lot and the playing fields.
15. Coaches and Umpires will walk the fields before every game to check for hazards that will interfere with play. Coaches will inspect equipment on a regular basis for proper condition and fit. Any equipment found to be damaged or unusable will be discarded and replaced with new equipment by the Equipment Manager.

●Field Inspection Checklist:

• Check for holes, damage, rough or uneven spots
• Check for slippery areas and long grass
• Check for glass, rocks and other foreign objects
• Damage to screens, fences, edges or sharp fencing
• Check for unsafe conditions around backstop and pitcher’s mound
• Inspect warning track condition
• Inspect dugouts before and after games
• Make sure cellular telephones are available in case of emergency
• Check to make sure area around bleachers is free of trash and debris
• Have someone conduct a general garbage clean up around the field and bleacher areas

16. Prior to each game, Managers shall show the umpire the team First Aid Kit and Book of Medical Releases as part of the pre-game equipment and field check.
17. Batters must wear Little League approved helmets during batting practice and games. Catchers must wear catcher's helmet, mask, throat guard, long model chest protector, shin guards and athletic supporter with protective cup for all practices and games.
18. Except when a runner is returning to a base, headfirst slides are not permitted (Major League and below).
19. Bases are required to disengage upon contact. They are never to be strapped down or anchored.
20. Horseplay is not permitted on the playing field.
21. Only registered little league players are allowed to be on the field during practice or games.
22. Only players belonging to the specific team practicing are allowed to be on the field. (no siblings or other players who are on different team or divisions are allowed to be on the field, NO EXCEPTIONS)
23. Players who wear glasses should be encouraged to wear safety glasses.
24. Players cannot wear any jewelry, including watches, earrings, necklaces, pins or metallic items (with the exception of Medical Alert tags) during games or practices.
25. The catcher must wear catchers’ helmet and mask with a throat guard while warming up pitchers. This applies to between innings and in the bullpen during a game and also during practice.
26. Managers and Coaches may not warm up pitchers before or during a game.

27. On-deck batters are not permitted (except in junior division).
28. Always take caution when entering and leaving the parking areas. Control speed and watch for pedestrians in and around the facilities.
29. Tobacco products of any type will be strictly prohibited on or around the playing fields by Players, Coaches and spectators.

CODE OF CONDUCT

• REDUCE SPEED: Reduce speed on roadways and in parking lots while attending any OALL function. Always watch for small children around or near parked cars.
• NO CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES: No alcohol, drugs, or tobacco products allowed in any parking lot, field or common area within the OALL ballpark or functions.
• SUPERVISION: Supervision is required of all children (not just Players or participants) by an adult at all times during any practice, game or Little League function.
• RESTROOMS: Players are not allowed to go to the restrooms without an adult.
• DROP OFF: Player drop off for practice or games is not permitted for lower divisions.
• NO PROFANITY: No profanity or derogatory comments permitted from players, coaches or spectators.
• PROPER USE OF EQUIPMENT: No swinging or throwing of bats, balls, rocks or any other items in any way that may cause injury to another person or damage to property.
• NO HORSEPLAY: Avoid horseplay during practices or games, on/or around the bleachers, in bathrooms or near the snack bar and patio area.
• NO CLIMBING: No climbing on or over any fences or backstops.
• TRASH: Proper disposal of garbage, recyclable items, and trash is the responsibility of us all. Please help maintain all practice fields and the OALL ballpark.
• GOLF CARTS: No person under the age of 14 years old are allowed in golf carts unless accompanied by an adult. Golf carts are never to be used in an unsafe manner.
• DOGS: Dogs are prohibited on the fields/dugout during practices or games.
• RIDING: Skateboards, bikes or scooters are prohibited on bleachers, in front of snack bar or on the fields during practices or games.

PLEASE BE ADVISED FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THE ANY OF THE ABOVE RULES MAY RESULT IN THE EXPULSION FROM THE OALL BALLPARK, PRACTICE FIELDS OR FUNCTIONS!

ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

LEAGUE PLAYER REGISTRATION DATA TO LITTLE LEAGUE: League player registration data or player roster data and coach and manager data shall be submitted via the Little League Data Center at www.LittleLeague.org.

The President: The President of OALL is responsible for ensuring that the policies and regulations of the OALL Safety Plan are carried out by the entire membership to the best of his/her abilities.

The Safety Officer: The main responsibility of the OALL Safety Officer is to develop and implement the League's safety program. The OALL Safety Officer is the link between the Board of Directors of Oceanside American Little League and its managers, coaches, umpires, players, spectators, and any other third parties on the complex in regard to safety matters, rules and regulations. A copy of the safety plan will be provided to all volunteers.

The Safety Officer's responsibilities include:

• Completing an Annual Little League Facility Survey
• Assisting parents and individuals with insurance claims.
• Explaining insurance benefits to claimants and assisting them with filing the correct paperwork.
• Keeping a first aid log.
• Ensuring that each team receives a First Aid manual and First Aid kit.
• Installing First Aid kits in the snack bar and restocking supplies as needed.
• Ensure Little League's policy of "No Tolerance with Child Abuse" is clear to all.
• Inspecting snack bar stands and checking fire extinguishers.
• Checking fields with grounds crew and listing areas needing attention.
• Scheduling First-Aid clinics and/or CPR training classes for all managers, coaches, umpires, board members and others available to attend during the pre-season.
• Acting immediately in resolving unsafe or hazardous conditions once a situation has been brought to the attention of the Safety Officer.
• Making a spot check at practices and games to make sure all managers have their first aid kits and safety gear.
• Tracking all injuries.

Managers: The manager is a person appointed by the president of OALL to be responsible for the team's action on the field, and to represent the team in communications with the umpire and the opposing team.

• The Manager shall always be responsible for the team's conduct, observance of the official rules and respect given to the umpires.
• The Manager is also responsible for the safety of his players. The Manager is also ultimately responsible for the actions of designated coaches.
• 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 to do list:

• Take possession of First Aid kit.
• Attend mandatory coaches clinics. Every manager/coach must attend training once every three (3) years.
• Complete mandatory on-line training (links attached)
• Meet with parents to discuss Little League philosophy and safety issues (Code of conduct)
• Cover the basics of safe play with his/her team before starting the first practice.
• Teach players how to slide before the season starts.
• Notify parents that if a child is seriously injured or ill, he/she cannot return to practice unless they have a note from their doctor.
• Provide parents with a concussion information sheet if a player is removed due to possible concussion. (attached)
• Encourage players to bring water bottles to practice and games

In-Season to do list:

• Check equipment prior to each use, to make sure it is in first-rate working order.
• Make sure that phone access is available at all activities, including practices.
• Keep the team set of Medical Release forms at every team function, practices and games.
• Not expect more from the players than what they are capable of.
• Teach fundamentals of the game to the players:

• Catching fly balls
• Sliding correctly
• Proper fielding of ground balls
• Simple pitching motion for balance

• Be open to ideas, suggestions or help.
• Use common sense.
• Make sure players are wearing proper safety equipment.
• Catcher's cup, helmet worn during practice and games while warming up.
• Proper stretching is taking place at games and practice.
• Keep players alert and aware of surroundings.
• Maintain discipline at all times on field and in dugout.
• Be organized.
• Encourage everyone to think Safety First.
• Attend to children that become injured in a practice or game.
• Inspect field before games and practices.

Volunteer Application Forms

• All Managers, Coaches, Umpires, and league officers must fill out an Official Little League Volunteer Application.(form is attached)
• All team moms that will be in the dugout (lower division) and any adult helping during practice or on the field at any time or have frequent and/or regular contact with the players must fill out a volunteer application.
• The League Safety Officer will keep and maintain on file all applications and copies of ID and any confidential information provided.
• The league will conduct nationwide background checks on all volunteer once every year.
• Providing social security number for background check is mandatory.

Child Protection Program (Mandated reporting of child abuse)

Under California law, certain individuals including youth organizations, coaches, assistant coaches or athletic personal at public or private sports organizations are required to report suspected child abuse to any police department or sheriff department within 24 hours. (training and information link attached)

Social Distancing

• Space players at least 6 feet apart on the field while participating in the sport (e.g., during warmup, skill building activities, simulation drills)
• Discourage unnecessary physical contact, such as high fives, handshakes, fist bumps, or hugs.
• Create distance between players when explaining drills or rules.
• If keeping physical distance is difficult with players in competition or group practice, consider relying on individual skill work and drills.
• Encourage players to wait in their cars with guardians until just before the beginning of a practice, warm-up, or game, instead of forming a group.
• The bleachers will be available for use as well as surrounding grass areas. Maintaining 6 feet from other individuals from different households is highly recommended.

Face covering

• Face coverings are highly recommended for ALL players, coaches, and parents and should be worn properly covering nose and mouth.
• Face covering are highly recommended while in dugout and when within 6 feet of any other player or coach.
• Encourage parent/Guardian to keep extra masks in car for their player.

Equipment and Gear

• Players are required to have their own equipment, there should be no sharing of gear or water bottles.
• If sharing equipment is necessary, such as catchers gear, it would be ideal to limit rotating the catcher, make players wear ball cap under helmet to reduce sweat transfer to helmet, and will be sanitized after each player.

Staying Home when Appropriate

• Educate coaches and player families about when they should stay home and when they can return to activity.
• Actively encourage sick coaches, families, and players to stay home.
• Individuals, including coaches, players, and families, will be required to stay home if they have tested positive for or are showing COVID-19 symptoms.
  • Fever or chills
  • Cough
  • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
  • Fatigue
  • Muscle or body aches
  • Headache
  • New loss of taste or smell
  • Sore throat
  • Congestion or runny nose
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Diarrhea
• Individuals, including coaches, players, and families, who have recently had a close contact with a person with COVID-19 should also stay home and monitor their health for 5 days.
• Individuals, including coaches, players, and families, who have tested positive for COVID-19 are required to stay home and quarantine for 10 days before returning to practices. The parent/guardian must also report a positive test or symptoms to the League President Daniel Garcia, Safety Officer Shannon Spencer or Player Agent Elizabeth Roby so we can take further action with the individuals assigned team (the identity of the player will be kept confidential).

TRAINING and CLINICS

The following mandatory on-line training and clinic programs will provide the fundamentals and awareness needed to be a successful Little League Manager.

Managers and Coaches Clinic: At least one manager/coach from each team must attend the training. Every manager/coach will attend this training once every 3 years.

http://bigalbaseball.com/

Instructions:

-Click on the button “Membership Code”

-Select either “Coach 4-8” (T-Ball/Farm/AA) or “Coach 9-12” (AAA/Majors/Juniors) program based on the division you are managing.

-Complete registration form in following page.

-Click “Continue” to complete registration and gain access.

-Note: If you already have a Big Al Baseball profile, you will select “Already a member and want to purchase or activate another T&D program please click here to log in” this will allow you to log in without completing registration form.

Concussion Training (one time training): Mandatory for all managers/coaches.

Total Training is approx. 60 min

https://www.cdc.gov/headsup/youthsports/coach.html

Instructions:

-Log in or create account.

-Click Pre-Assessment and answer questions (Approx. 5 min)

-Launch Concussion training (Approx. 50 min)

-Click Post- Assessment and answer questions (Approx.  5 min)

- Print or email completion certificate.

Basic First Aid Training (one time training): Mandatory for all managers/coaches.

 Total Training approx. 30 min

https://usabmobilecoach.com/courses

Instructions:

-Log in or create account.

- Once logged in on main page click “basic first aid” and follow instructions.

- After completion, go to profile > courses > print completion certification.

- Print or email completion certificate.

Abuse Awareness for Adults (one time training): Mandatory for all managers/coaches.

 Total Training approx. 20 min

https://usabmobilecoach.com/courses

Instructions:

-Log in or create account.

- Once logged in on main page click “Abuse Awareness for Adults” and follow instructions.

- After completion, go to profile > courses > print completion certification.

- Print or email completion certificate.

Cardiac Arrest Training (one time training): Mandatory for all managers/coaches.

Total Training approx. 20 min

https://epsavealife.org/sca-prevention-training/

Instructions:

-Log in or Create account.

-Launch training

- Print or email completion certificate.

• Child abuse information and reporting procedures:

https://www.littleleague.org/player-safety/child-protection-program/state-specific-information-child-abuse/

• Little League online training:

www.littleleaguecoach.org

www.littleleagueu.org

• Positive coaching:

www.positivecoach.org/littleleague