Golf is a safe sport for the most part, but a golf ball travels at high speed, clubs are swung with force, and courses can involve slopes, water, carts and unpredictable weather. Most injuries on golf courses are preventable with a little awareness. Here are the essential safety rules every golfer should know, and follow.
Shout "fore"
"Fore" is the warning call when a ball is heading towards people.
- Shout loudly and immediately, in the direction the ball is going. It is better to shout and not need it than to stay quiet.
- Shout even if you're not sure the ball will reach anyone.
- If you hear "fore," don't look up to find the ball. Crouch, turn away, and cover your head with your arms. Many golfers are injured by looking up.
- Point in the direction the ball went to help others.
Read golf etiquette 101.
Wait until it's safe to play
- Wait until the group ahead is out of range of your best shot, not your average one.
- Watch for greenkeepers and wait for them to signal you to play.
- Be aware of adjoining holes, paths and roads.
- On blind holes, check that the landing area is clear, often with a bell or a signal.
Where to stand
- Stand well clear of anyone swinging, out of the line of the swing and the ball, ideally opposite the golfer and slightly ahead, facing them.
- Never stand directly behind or in front of a golfer.
- Stay behind the furthest player from the hole.
- Check around you before taking practice swings; never swing towards another person.
Lightning and storms
- Check the forecast before you play, especially in summer.
- The "30-30" guide: if the time between seeing lightning and hearing thunder is 30 seconds or less, seek shelter; wait about 30 minutes after the last thunder before resuming.
- Golf carts are not safe shelters from lightning.
- Under the rules, you may stop play if you believe there is danger from lightning.
Read playing golf in bad weather.
Golf cart safety
- Drive slowly, especially downhill, on wet grass and around corners.
- Keep arms and legs inside while moving.
- Follow course rules and signs, and keep away from greens, tees and steep banks.
- Set the brake when stopping and parking.
- Don't overload the cart or carry extra passengers.
- Never drive under the influence of alcohol.
Read walking vs riding a golf cart and golf cart accessories.
Heat and sun
- Drink water regularly, before you're thirsty. Read what to eat and drink on the golf course.
- Wear sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses. Read sun protection for golfers.
- Know the signs of heat illness: dizziness, headache, nausea, cramps and confusion. Stop, cool down and get help if needed.
Read hot weather golf.
Wildlife and the natural environment
- Keep your distance from wildlife, including alligators, snakes, bees, bears and aggressive birds.
- Never retrieve balls from water edges, steep banks or dense undergrowth where you can't see your footing.
- Watch for slippery banks, steps and bridges, especially when wet.
- Take free relief from dangerous animal conditions. Read golf free relief rules.
Physical safety
- Warm up to reduce injury. Read the pre-round warm-up routine.
- Lift your bag carefully, bending your knees.
- Wear shoes with good grip, especially on slopes. Read our golf shoes guide.
- Carry essential medication, and let your playing partners know about any medical conditions.
Practice areas
- Hit only from designated areas on the range.
- Never walk onto the range to collect balls.
- Keep a safe distance from golfers in adjacent bays.
- Supervise children closely. Read first time at the driving range.
Children on the course
- Teach "fore" and where to stand from the start.
- Keep young children close and supervised.
- Never let children drive carts.
Read getting kids into golf.
Frequently asked questions
What should I do if I hear "fore"?
Don't look up. Crouch, turn away and cover your head with your arms.
Is it safe to play golf in the rain?
Rain alone is generally fine with the right clothing, but leave the course at once if there is thunder or lightning.
Can I shelter in a golf cart during lightning?
No. Golf carts don't protect you from lightning. Seek a substantial building or a hard-topped vehicle.
What is the safest place to stand when someone is hitting?
Well to the side, opposite and slightly ahead of the golfer, facing them and out of the line of the swing and ball.
The bottom line
Golf is a safe game when everyone follows a few simple rules: shout "fore" early, wait until it's safe to play, stand well clear, leave the course when lightning approaches, drive carts carefully and respect heat and wildlife. Look after yourself and others, and everyone can enjoy their round. For more on etiquette, read pace of play.