Section 8: Safety Considerations
Pre-Game Inspection
Inspect every seat before play. Remove any chair that wobbles, collapses unexpectedly, has wheels, exposes sharp edges, or cannot support the intended players. Confirm that the floor is dry, level, uncluttered, and appropriate for the participants' footwear and mobility needs.
Provide generous clearance around the playing route. Never position the game beside stairs, glass, open flames, traffic, water, low obstacles, or unstable furniture. Route electrical cords away from all movement areas and secure them appropriately.
Safe Movement
Walking is the preferred movement for ordinary play. Players must keep their hands to themselves, remain under control, and sit without diving, jumping, or forcefully dropping onto a chair. The organizer should stop the activity immediately if movement becomes crowded or aggressive.
Match the number of players and the duration of the game to the available space, ages, and abilities. Use smaller heats for large groups. Allow rest and water breaks when the environment is warm or when several games are played consecutively.
Supervision and Inclusion
Children should have active adult supervision. The supervisor should remain able to see the entire route and reach the playing area quickly. Players who cannot safely circle chairs may use floor stations, wider spacing, slower movement, a partner format, or a non-elimination version.
Do not require blindfolding, backward running, hopping near hard furniture, or physical struggles for seats. Avoid excessively loud music, and lower the volume for participants with sensory sensitivities. A visible stop signal may accompany the music for players who are deaf or hard of hearing.
Stopping for Injury or Hazard
Any player or supervisor may call for an immediate stop when someone falls, a seat moves unexpectedly, an obstacle enters the route, or another hazard develops. Players should freeze or move safely away from the seats. Attend to the affected person, correct the hazard, and replay the interrupted round only when it is safe to continue.
Respectful Participation
Participation should be voluntary and age-appropriate. Do not use embarrassing penalties for elimination, and do not pressure anyone to continue after discomfort, distress, or injury. The best game is energetic, fair, and enjoyable for everyone involved.