Buy for the lesson plan
Start with the lessons you will teach. Then list the equipment each lesson needs.
Avoid buying exciting gear with no clear use. Money spent on spare gadgets cannot also pay a coach or a refund.
Choose sizes, weights, and designs that fit the participants and the sport rules. Have a qualified sport leader approve specialist or protective gear.
Do not guess whether a used helmet, climbing item, or other safety item is sound. Its history, fit, inspection rules, and replacement rules matter.
Use a simple equipment list
| Item | Number needed | Who checks it? | Where is it stored? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Balls for the planned drills | [Number] | Lead coach | [Place] |
| Cones and markers | [Number] | Group coach | [Place] |
| Sport-specific protective gear | [Number and sizes] | Qualified leader | [Place] |
| First-aid and emergency supplies | [Approved list] | Health lead | [Place] |
| Communication equipment | [Number] | Camp lead | [Place] |
Use the manufacturer's instructions for assembly, anchoring, inspection, cleaning, storage, and retirement.
For example, a movable goal must have the approved safe setup for that product and site. Keep people from climbing or hanging on it. Do not improvise a fix for an unstable structure.
Give damaged gear a clear status
Use three labels: ready to use, waiting for a check, and do not use.
Keep unsafe items away from the activity area. A note saying “Be careful” is not a repair.
Record what failed, who checked it, and when it was repaired or replaced. Do not put it back into service without the required approval.
Check official recall notices for the products you use. Canada has a government recall and safety-alert database.1 Use the matching official resource in your country too.
Count before and after
Count important items at opening and closing. Missing gear may be more than a cost problem. A small child may have carried it into an unsafe place.
Keep storage tidy. Staff should not have to climb over boxes to reach a first-aid kit or block an exit with bags.
Set a cleaning routine based on the material, use, health advice, and maker's instructions. Do not mix cleaning chemicals. Store them away from participants.
Plan replacement costs
An item that lasts more than one season is not free next season. Set money aside for repairs and replacement.
Separate this planning allowance from actual cash spending in your books. Your accountant can decide how long-life equipment should be recorded for tax and financial reports.
Prepare spare supplies
Think through a broken pump, a flat battery, wet clothing, lost labels, or a failed speaker. A few well-chosen spares may prevent a rushed decision.
Do not use a spare that changes the sport's safety standard.
Your task: Build the equipment list from your lesson plans. Give every safety-critical item an inspection owner and a removal rule.
Sources for this page
- Government of Canada. Recalls and safety alerts. Official product recall and safety-alert search. ↩