1. Rationale or background to policy:
Concussions can occur while participating in any sport or recreational activity. Since the circumstances under which a concussion can be sustained are so varied, it’s important for all coaches, parents, athletes and volunteers to be aware of the signs, symptoms, and what to do if a concussion occurs.

We all have a role to play in ensuring the safety of those participating in physical activity and for encouraging and motivating participants to assume responsibility for their own safety and the safety of others. Awareness of the signs and symptoms of concussion and knowledge of how to properly manage a concussion is critical to recovery and helping to ensure the individual is not returning to physical activities too soon, risking further complications.

Thunder Bay Nordic Trails encourages those involved in cross country skiing to visit the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport website regarding the prevention, identification and care of concussion. http://www.health.gov.on.ca/en/public/programs/concussions/docs/mtcs_concussion_guide_en.pdf

2. Policy Statement:
Individual members, day users, organized groups (Jackrabbits, Big Thunder Nordic etc.) TBNT staff and volunteers will be informed through our website that concussion can happen in any sport and that care should be taken to recognize the symptoms of concussion and how it should be treated.

3. Procedures:
a) – annually prior to the start of the ski season, board members will review the websites’ content as it pertains to concussion and update, if necessary, with links to the most current and relevant information available.
b) – annually during the staff and volunteer orientation/training session, signs and symptoms of concussion will be reviewed.