DRS Golf Community

A good round of golf begins with consideration for others. Every swing, practice shot, and decision to play affects the people around us. Whether you are playing a friendly fourball or competing in the DRS Winter League, safety deserves the same attention as your score.

Golf’s standards of conduct include looking out for others. The following habits help protect fellow golfers, caddies, spectators, and course staff. USGA Rules of Golf

Wait until the way is clear

Before playing, check that the group ahead is safely beyond your possible range. Allow for your best strike, a favourable bounce, and the wind. Never hit towards players to hurry them along.

On a blind hole, wait until you can confirm the landing area is clear. Follow the course’s bell, signal, or marshal’s instructions where provided. When in doubt, wait. PGA Golf Etiquette Guide

Give every swing enough space

Check your surroundings before taking a practice swing or making a stroke. Make sure nobody stands close enough to be struck by the club, ball, or flying debris.

When another player prepares to hit, stand well clear of their swing and away from the intended line of play. Caddies and playing partners should remain alert, even during casual conversations.

Shout “FORE!” immediately

If your ball heads towards someone, shout “FORE!” loudly and without delay. Do not wait to see where it lands. A timely warning gives people a chance to protect themselves.

If you see another player’s ball heading towards people, give the warning yourself. Safety matters more than who struck the shot. The Rules of Golf specifically call for an immediate warning when a ball may endanger someone. USGA Rules of Golf

Give course staff priority

Greenkeepers and maintenance teams may be concentrating on their work or operating noisy equipment. Never assume they have seen you.

Wait until staff acknowledge you and move safely clear before playing. Apply the same care around caddies, marshals, and people crossing the course.

Keep a good pace without rushing others

Prepare your club, assess your shot, and be ready when it is your turn. But never let pressure from the group behind persuade you to play an unsafe shot.

In stroke play, “ready golf” can help maintain pace when players use it safely and responsibly. Communicate clearly before playing out of order, especially when another golfer is nearby. The R&A, Rule 5

Drive carts with care

Follow the course’s cart rules, posted routes, and speed restrictions. Slow down near people, bends, slopes, and wet ground. Keep passengers seated and bring the cart to a complete stop before anyone gets out.

Park where you leave a clear path for other players and course vehicles.

Take weather warnings seriously

Know the course’s suspension signal and evacuation procedure before starting. If lightning threatens, stop playing and seek a substantial enclosed building or an enclosed hard-top vehicle. An isolated tree, open shelter, or open golf cart does not provide safe lightning protection. Follow instructions before resuming play. CDC Lightning Safety

The Rules also allow a player to stop when they reasonably believe lightning presents a danger. The R&A, Rule 5

Keep your temper under control

A disappointing shot never justifies throwing a club, striking a ball in anger, or playing before the area is clear. Pause, regain your composure, and give your next shot your full attention.

Courtesy also means speaking up calmly when you notice a hazard. A simple “Please wait, someone is still in range” can prevent an accident.

Make safety part of every round

Before each shot, take a moment to check: Is my swing clear? Is the landing area clear? Is everyone around me aware?

For the DRS Golf Community, considerate play helps everyone enjoy the competition and return for the next round.

Play well. Look out for one another.