Emergency Action Plans
USSF
Summary
The Emergency Action Plan (EAP) resource from the U.S. Soccer Learning Center provides clear guidance for developing and implementing safety protocols in case of emergencies during practices and matches. An EAP is an essential component of safeguarding player, coach, referee, and spectator wellbeing, ensuring that all organizations are prepared to respond quickly and effectively to medical or environmental emergencies.
This resource highlights the importance of assigning roles, identifying emergency contacts, mapping facility locations including Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs), and practicing response scenarios. By proactively preparing, soccer organizations can minimize risk and build confidence that safety is prioritized.
HOW AND WHEN IT CAN HELP
- For clubs and leagues establishing formal emergency response procedures.
- To guide coaches, referees, and administrators in preparing for unexpected incidents.
- As a reference for including emergency protocols in safeguarding and risk management policies.
- When training staff, volunteers, and players on emergency readiness.
WHAT WE LIKE ABOUT THIS RESOURCE
The EAP framework is simple, actionable, and adaptable to organizations of all sizes. It prioritizes preparation and role clarity, which are key to effective emergency response.
KEY CONSIDERATIONS WHEN USING THIS RESOURCE
- Plans should be customized to each facility and regularly updated.
- All staff and volunteers must be trained and rehearse the EAP.
- Emergency equipment (like AEDs) should be accessible and functional at all times.
ABOUT THE CONTRIBUTOR
As the governing body of soccer in all its forms in the United States. U.S. Soccer exists in service to soccer. Our ambition is to ignite a national passion for soccer. We believe soccer is more than a sport, it is a force for good.’ To learn more visit USSoccer.com.
This resource is hosted on the US Soccer Learning Center where coaches, referees and other members of the soccer community can access a wide range of articles and training opportunities.
CREDITING CONTRIBUTORS
The Resource Hub is made possible by the generosity of contributors. It demonstrates the rich expertise and collective team spirit that exists across our soccer community.
All resources that have been contributed to the Resource Hub are free for users of the Hub to learn from, adapt and implement in their own organization and community.
Where relevant, we encourage users of the resources to formally or informally credit the resource creator, to acknowledge their expertise and generosity.