Emergency situations can happen at any time on a golf course, from injuries and illnesses to fires and storms. As a golf course staff member, you need to be prepared to handle them effectively and safely. In this article, we will share some tips and best practices for dealing with common emergencies on the course.
The first step is to know your role and responsibilities in an emergency situation. Depending on your position, you may be in charge of calling for help, providing first aid, evacuating guests, or securing the area. You should also know who is your supervisor and how to communicate with them and other staff members. Make sure you have access to the emergency plan, contact numbers, and equipment for your role.
Golf course staff can handle emergency situations effectively by implementing a comprehensive emergency response plan, providing regular training on first aid and CPR, establishing clear communication protocols, maintaining updated emergency contact information, and installing first aid stations and AEDs at strategic locations. Additionally, clear evacuation routes and assembly points, weather monitoring systems, and communication with players during emergencies are crucial. Coordination with local emergency services, protocols for lost individuals, and regular drills and simulations contribute to a well-prepared and coordinated response, prioritizing the safety of players and staff on the golf course.
I have shared similar roles where the 7 Ps come in very helpful. An emergency plan should be able to be effectively used as long as every scenario has been considered. From a blister to , God forbid, a lightning strike... At least 1 person of authority, who has this training, needs to be on the clock while operations are ongoing, so the proper procedures are followed,all the while, Ensuring everyones safety while keeping an eye on your business needs.
The second step is to assess the situation and determine the level of urgency and risk. You should always prioritize your own safety and the safety of others before taking any action. If the situation is life-threatening, call 911 or the local emergency number immediately and follow their instructions. If the situation is less severe, but still requires assistance, call the golf course manager or the designated emergency coordinator and report the details.
The third step is to provide assistance to the affected person or persons, if you are trained and qualified to do so. For example, you may be able to perform CPR, stop bleeding, or treat minor injuries. You should always use personal protective equipment, such as gloves and masks, and follow the protocols for infection control and disposal of waste. You should also reassure the person and keep them calm until professional help arrives.
The fourth step is to evacuate or shelter the guests and staff, depending on the type and severity of the emergency. For example, you may need to evacuate the course in case of a fire, a gas leak, or a bomb threat. You should follow the designated evacuation routes and assembly points and account for everyone. Alternatively, you may need to shelter in place in case of a tornado, a lightning storm, or an active shooter. You should follow the lockdown procedures and stay away from windows and doors.
The fifth step is to document and debrief the emergency situation. You should record the date, time, location, nature, and outcome of the incident, as well as the names and contact information of the involved parties. You should also report any injuries, damages, or losses to the golf course manager or the insurance company. Finally, you should participate in a debriefing session with your supervisor and colleagues to review what happened, what worked well, and what can be improved.
The sixth step is to update and train on the emergency plan and procedures. You should review the plan regularly and make sure it reflects the current conditions and risks on the course. You should also attend training sessions and drills to refresh your skills and knowledge and to practice your response. You should also provide feedback and suggestions to improve the plan and the training.