Ice Safety

The Missoula Curling Club is committed to making curling a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone on the ice — from first-timers to seasoned veterans. Please review the following guidelines before your first time on the ice and refer back as needed throughout the season.

Footwear and Equipment

Wear rubber-soled shoes or athletic footwear. Boots, dress shoes, and heels are not appropriate on the ice. The club provides sliders — a device that attaches over your shoe to help you glide during delivery — so you do not need to purchase curling-specific shoes to participate. Brooms and stones are provided for all club events and league play.

Dress warmly in comfortable, flexible layers. The rink is cold, and you will be on the ice for an extended period. Avoid loose scarves or accessories that could get caught during delivery.

On-Ice Conduct

Curling is a low-contact sport, but the playing surface requires attention and care. Follow these basic rules to protect yourself and others:

  • Never run or move rapidly on the ice.
  • Be aware of other players and moving stones at all times.
  • Do not step onto the sheet while stones are in motion.
  • Always enter and exit the ice at designated areas.
  • Notify a club official or volunteer immediately if you observe a hazard on the ice surface.
Falls and Injuries

Falls are the most common source of injury in curling, particularly during the delivery. If you fall:

  • Try to fall to your side rather than catching yourself with outstretched hands.
  • Do not attempt to stand up quickly — take a moment to assess before rising.
  • If you are injured, notify a volunteer or league official immediately. Do not continue playing if you are in pain or discomfort.

First aid supplies are available at Glacier Ice Rink. In the event of a serious injury, call 911.

Waivers

All participants — league members, Learn to Curl attendees and event participants — are required to sign a waiver before taking the ice. For Learn to Curl events and special events like the Olympic Try Day at Glacier Ice Rink, participants register and sign waivers in advance. League members complete an annual MCC Waiver and Code of Conduct through the club's online registration system.

If you are unsure whether you have a current waiver on file, contact the club at [email protected].

Minors on the Ice

Participants under 18 must have a parent or guardian sign a waiver on their behalf. Youth participants must be accompanied by a responsible adult at all club events unless otherwise arranged with club leadership in advance.

Cancellations and Ice Conditions

Occasionally, events are cancelled or delayed due to ice conditions, scheduling conflicts with the rink, or other circumstances outside the club's control. Check your email and the club's social media pages — Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and YouTube — for timely updates. The club's cancellation policy is available here.

Questions

If you have questions about safety procedures or want to report a concern, reach out to the club at [email protected] or speak with any board member or volunteer at a club event.