Safety Rules
The following rules are for your guidance before arriving at Breydin. These rules are the generally accepted practice on the battlefields of England. The rules will have the overall governing authority.
1. Weapons
All weapons used in combat must be in good condition and fit for the purpose. Group commanders are responsible for the condition of their own weapons and those of their society members. No sharp weapons are to be taken on to the battlefield, even if they are not going to be used in combat. Remove notches, burrs, rust, and dirt from all weapons. No blows to the head or face even if protected. Keep spears, bills, staves or other long weapons at a low angle during engagement. As for all the respectable battles there will be NO HEADSHOTS UNLESS PREVIOUSLY AGREED OR SCRIPTED. Physical tackling of opponents is strictly forbidden.
2. Black Powder Weapons
In line with the prevailing atmosphere regarding guns, permission must be requested before bringing any black powder weapons to Breydin. The Organizer will be checking that all participants using black powder weaponry hold a valid licence for the use of these substances, equipment and storage. The pieces will be positioned so as to minimize the risk to the public or other participants and in accordance to plans laid out by in commanders meeting.
3. Archery
Only use arrows with a solid rubber blunt. Loose arrows at an angle not less than 45° degrees to the ground. Do not snipe or shoot directly at other participants. Always check thoroughly the condition of any arrow picked up from the ground before putting it onto a bow.
4. Fitness for Participation
Individuals must not participate in the battles whilst under the influence of alcohol or any other controlled substances that may affect their safe judgment. Persons attempting to do so will be banned from the field and may find that they are committing a criminal offence.
5. Non-Combatants
Please be aware of banner bearers, first-aiders, archers, arrow collectors and stewards or photographers, who will be wearing yellow sashes or tabards. They are not legitimate targets and should not be engaged in close combat. Some gun crews may be willing to enter into combat but this will only be with verbal agreement or previous arrangement. If guns are no longer in use, the muzzle being pointed down by at least 45° degrees will indicate it.
6. Stewards
There will be official stewards, walking at the sides of the battle site. They are aware of the plan of the battle and are there to make the battle safe by keeping the public back. To ensure everybody has a good fight, his or her commanders must be obeyed at all times. In the event that someone is injured bring it to the attention of a steward and he will contact the first aid crews who will be standing by at all times.
7. Insurance
In order for any group or individual to take part in the physical fighting of the battle we recommend that they have their own insurance. This should be shown and a copy given to the organizer representative at the commanders meeting. If insurance is not available minimal cover (Public Liability only) may be extended to combatants by the organizer (2 mil. euro).
8. Battle Organizers
The instructions of the battle organisers have to be followed.