Whether you're getting into golf for fitness or social or business reasons, one of the most important things that you need to learn is how to keep yourself and other players safe on the golf course. Once you have a basic understanding of the game, this is the next thing that you should know by heart.
Listed here are some of the safety guidelines every golfer should know.
Develop awareness.
Every time it's your turn to swing your golf club, it becomes your responsibility to ensure that no one will get inadvertently get hurt. The best way to do this is to know where exactly the other players are before taking a swing, even practice swings.
But apart from your swings, you must also be mindful of the area where you intend to direct the golf ball. Make sure that there are no people playing at the area you intend to swing the golf ball to.
Now, when it's the turn of the other player to swing, you still have to be mindful of where you are and avoid getting accidentally hit.
Fore!
Sometimes, the golf ball doesn't go exactly where you intend it to go. In other cases, you thought the area where the ball is going is clear but is actually not. In both circumstances, it's your responsibility to warn other players on the course who may inadvertently get hit. The way to do this is to shout "Fore!" This will allow the other players that a golf ball is headed their way.
Now, if you hear “fore,” you need to find a way to avoid getting hit by the golf ball — by hiding behind a tree, covering your head, ducking behind your golf cart, etc.
Practise patience.
Much as you'd like to play on an empty golf course, the reality you have to contend with is that there will almost always be other groups playing on the course.
If you feel frustrated that the other group is playing too slowly, call a course marshall to bring things up to speed or simply wait patiently. The last thing that you'd want to do is let your frustration get the better of you, which can lead to accidents or even fatalities.
Learn how to drive the golf cart.
Before driving a golf cart, make sure that you know and understand how to operate it safely and properly. Practise the same rules that apply to driving a car and always be mindful of the people and things around you.
Watch out for lightning.
Under no circumstance should you play when there's lightning over the golf course. Carrying metal clubs increases your risk of getting struck. At the first sign of lightning, head to the clubhouse. If you're unable to do so, head for the nearest designated lightning shelter. If all else fails, get away from metal objects, trees and water.
More tips:
Remember to keep yourself hydrated, especially during sunny days. Make sure that you wear proper clothing, including suitable head gear and put on sunscreen.
Consider joining a golf club near you.