Safety Rules

Real-World Emergencies

While we strive to create an immersive and exciting game, player safety always comes first. In the event of a real-world emergency, follow these steps to ensure everyone's well-being:

Call "FIRST AID" If Someone Is Injured

• If you witness a medical emergency or serious injury, immediately call "FIRST AID" loud and clear.
• Stop all in-game actions and kneel down to allow first-aid responders to locate the situation quickly.
• Do not repeat the call unless you are the first to witness the incident—this helps crew members find the location efficiently.
• A referee or designated first-aider will assess and handle the situation.

Follow Crew and Referee Instructions

• If an emergency occurs, listen carefully to any instructions from referees or event staff.
• They will direct you on what actions to take, including potential evacuations, movement restrictions, or temporary game suspensions.

Fire or Site-Wide Emergency

• If a fire or other site-wide emergency occurs, a referee or event crew will call "TIME OUT".
• Upon hearing this, immediately stop roleplaying and follow the nearest crew member’s instructions.
• Move calmly but quickly to the designated emergency assembly point, which will be outlined during the pre-game briefing.

Severe Weather or Natural Hazards

• If extreme weather (such as storms, high winds, or flooding) creates unsafe conditions, a "TIME OUT" may be called.
• Follow crew guidance on sheltering, pausing play, or resuming when conditions improve.

If You See Something Dangerous

• If you notice an unsafe situation (such as a hazardous structure, an uncontrolled fire, or a dangerous animal), immediately inform the nearest referee or crew member.
• If the danger is immediate, move away and ensure others are aware of the risk.

If You Need to Leave in an Emergency

• If you must leave the event suddenly due to an emergency, inform a referee or event crew so they are aware of your departure.

Stay Calm & Help Others

• Emergencies can be stressful, but remaining calm and following instructions will help keep everyone safe.
• If you can, assist others—especially those who may need help moving quickly or understanding instructions.

Your safety is our priority. If in doubt, always ask a referee or crew member for guidance. Please see Out of Character Calls for a full explanation of our Out of Character Calls.

Combat Safety

Ensuring safe, immersive, and enjoyable combat is a priority in Wyld West. While we encourage dramatic and cinematic fights, safety must always come first. Below are the key rules and guidelines for engaging in combat responsibly:

General Combat Safety Rules

• Pull Your Blows – Always control your strikes so that they make contact without excessive force. Heavy or uncontrolled swings are dangerous and will not be tolerated.
• No Physical Contact – Punching, kicking, or any form of real physical combat outside of weapon strikes is strictly forbidden. See the Grappling section for how to safely grapple in character.
• Weapon Safety – Only use approved LARP-safe weapons. Never use a non-combat prop (such as a cap gun, foam loaf of bread, or tool) as a weapon.
• Weapons Checks – All weapons will be checked prior to the game, and referees may request to check a weapon at any point during play. If a weapon is deemed unsafe, it must not be used in combat.
• No Uncontrolled Charging – Do not rush or slam into opponents. Combat should be exciting but controlled.
• Stay Aware of Your Surroundings – Be mindful of terrain, obstacles, and other players when fighting to avoid accidental injuries. If you see a player at risk of hurting themselves, warn them—even if this means briefly breaking immersion.
• No Fighting While Intoxicated – If a player is found engaging in combat while under the influence, they may be removed from play until sober, and further action may be taken.
• Do Not Parry with Guns or Non-Padded Props – Guns and other non-combat props are not designed for blocking and can cause injury. Only use LARP-safe melee weapons (including ‘party popper guns’) that are specifically designed for combat.
• Use Thrust-Safe Weapons Properly – Only weapons with thrust-safe tips may be used for stabbing motions. Never ‘pool cue’ (slide a weapon through your hands) when making a thrust attack.
• Respect Your Opponent’s Limits – If someone signals that they are uncomfortable, disengage immediately. If in doubt, ask a referee.

Head and Sensitive Areas

• Avoid Strikes to the Head, Neck, or Groin – While head hits are legal, they should never be intentional. Always aim for safe target zones such as the torso, arms, and legs.

Safe Use of Firearms

• Cap Guns and Party Popper Guns Only – All firearms used in combat must be LARP-safe cap guns or party popper guns.
• Getting Your Target’s Attention – A gunshot only counts if the cap goes off and the target is aware they are being shot at.
• No Point-Blank Shots – If engaged in close quarters, aim for the torso rather than the face or eyes. Do not hold a firearm to anyone’s head. The minimum distance for a legal shot is 1 foot away.

If in Doubt, Ask a Referee

If you are ever unsure about combat mechanics, your safety, or the safety of others, seek out a referee for guidance. We are here to ensure everyone has a fair, fun, and safe experience.