How to Play it Safe on the Golf Course

Golf can be a dangerous sport: high speed balls are flying through the air, metal clubs are swinging all over the place and golf cars are zipping around this way and that. If a few basic rules are followed though, it’s easy to play it safe on the golf course. Follow these simple tips to avoid injury on the golf course.

Ensure the fairway is clear

Golf balls travel through the air at high speeds and at low height levels in some cases. This can be an extremely dangerous situation for anyone caught in the path of the golf ball. Make sure the fairway is clear before you hit the ball, and leave room for error either side of your intended path.  The general rule… if in doubt, don’t hit the ball.

Be aware of people around you

As well as being aware of people who might be in your path, keep a look out for signs that you might be in someone else’s path. It’s easy to become absorbed in the game and lose track of the people around you, but respecting the boundaries of other golfers will help both you and them to avoid injury.

Watch your clubs

Golf clubs can be dangerous instruments if not respected. Make sure you’re aware of where your playing partners are standing when taking your shot as they might not be paying attention.  Also, no matter how frustrated you are with that last shot, try not to throw your club into that lake… golf clubs are pretty expensive these days!

Be sun smart

The golf course is a dangerous place when it comes to sun exposure. Make sure you wear a suitable shirt and sunscreen as well as a hat to protect yourself from skin damage. Wearing polarised sunglasses is also a great way to protect your eyes while cutting through glare to improve visibility on the course. To avoid sunstroke, take regular drinks (of water) and, when available, stand in the shade while your playing partner has their shot.

Know your golf vehicle

Every golf car is different, so it’s important to listen to the instructions given to you by the hire provider and read any safety labels before driving it to the first tee. Make sure you stick to the designated cart paths and stay off tee boxes and at least five metres away from the greens. Always stick to the sign-posted speed limit and look out for people and wildlife on the track. If you’re drinking alcohol on the golf course, remember not to drink excessively. Golf cars are a piece of machinery that can cause serious injury or even death.  And, if you damage a golf car whilst playing, being intoxicated won’t stop the hirer from sending you the repair bill.

Warm up

A quick 10-minute warm up before the game will help prevent pulled or cramped muscles at the end of the game. It’s especially important to warm up in winter when cold muscles are easily injured.

For more handy golf tips and advice about golf and utility vehicles, drop in to ADH Golf & Utility Vehicles’ flagship Perth dealership or one of our five other showrooms across Australia. We offer expert advice and one of the most extensive ranges of golf car and utility vehicles in Australia. We also provide golf cart hire, service, repairs and spare parts for your convenience.