One tremendous aspect of soccer is the low incidence of injuries. They do occur, but are usually minor. Every so often, something much more serious occurs. The question is: Do you know what to do in an emergency?

Searching the Internet we came across the Hughston Sports Medicine Foundation (www.hughston.com). They have an excellent guide for a plan to deal with on-the-field emergencies, which we’ve summarized below. We would encourage you to visit their website.

From a team perspective, it is important that one person at every game takes responsibility should an emergency occur. Nowadays, a cell phone is almost a given, but if one is not available, the nearest phone to the field of play must be established.

This is what the Hughston Foundation recommends:

Suggested Emergency Protocol

Step 1

Call 911

Step 2

"My name is John Smith. I need an ambulance."

Step 3

Wait for the dispatcher to connect you with the EMS unit.

Step 4

To the dispatcher, state "My name is John Smith. I am at The Hughston Clinic, 6262 Veterans Parkway, and I need an ambulance."

Step 5

"I have a soccer player with a possible broken leg."

Step 6

DO NOT HANG UP. Be sure the dispatcher has all information needed.

Step 7

"I am calling from 706/555-5555."

Step 8

Hang up only after the dispatcher instructs you that he or she has all the information needed.

Step 9

Send a responsible person to the road to meet the EMS unit and direct it to the site of the injured athlete.

Type your step-by-step emergency protocol on a card then laminate it. Place the card in your first aid kit for quick reference.

In an emergency, even the most seasoned veteran may panic. Using this card will ensure that you follow all of the necessary steps.

Another aspect of the emergency plan is to plan the route for the ambulance to arrive at your practice or competition site.
Is there vehicular access for the ambulance?
Can the ambulance enter through a gate?
Is that gate locked?
Do you have the key?

Think of your situation and plan the ambulance route to the side of your injured athlete. Do not let a locked gate or lack of planning cost the precious seconds that can mean the difference between life and death. For further assistance with an emergency plan, contact your local EMS provider. The provider will gladly assist you in the development of a plan that will make his or her job much easier in the event that you call.

Our thanks to Bruce Getz, ATC, Columbus, Georgia, who developed the plan, and to the Hughston Sports Medicine Foundation