Practice Net Safety Basics

Practice nets make training at home easier, but no net is a guarantee. These basics apply to almost every setup; follow the guidance of your club, coach and local rules too.

Set up the space first

• Keep a clear zone around and behind the net, especially for golf, baseball and cricket.
• Check what is beyond the net: windows, cars, paths, neighbours and pets.
• Use the stakes, weights or guy lines supplied, and add more in wind. See anchoring a net in wind.

Match the net to the ball

• The mesh must be smaller than the ball and the netting strong enough for its speed.
• Hard balls (golf, baseball, cricket, hockey pucks) need nets designed for them; a football goal is not a golf net.
• Inspect netting for holes, fraying and UV damage before each session.

Archery is different

An archery backstop net is a supplement to a safe range, never a replacement. Check local laws, use a suitable target and backstop, and learn with a qualified coach or club. Read our archery backstop safety guide.

People

• Supervise children and keep spectators out of the hitting or shooting line.
• Use the protective gear your sport recommends, such as eye protection or helmets.
• Stop if a net or frame is damaged, and repair or replace it before using it again.