Now that spring has officially arrived, it will not be too long until our children are back on the athletic fields in our communities, playing baseball, softball, basketball and soccer. Just getting them there on time is not enough. Child sports injuries are a reality, but they are preventable. The following article from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (“CDC”) website, with some helpful tips for parents, was located by Andrew F. Fick, Esquire, with the law firm of Liever, Hyman & Potter, P.C., in Reading, Berks County, Pennsylvania:
“We all want to keep our children safe and secure and help them live to their full potential. Knowing how to prevent injuries from sports and recreation activities, one of the leading causes of child injury, is a step toward this goal. Taking part in sports and recreation activities is an important part of a healthy, physically active lifestyle for kids. But injuries can, and do, occur. More than 2.6 million children 0-19 years old are treated in the emergency department each year for sports and recreation-related injuries. Thankfully, there are steps that parents can take to help make sure kids stay safe on the field, the court, or wherever they play or participate in sports and recreation activities.
Prevention Tips:
- Gear up. When children are active in sports and recreation, make sure they use the right protective gear for their activity, such as helmets, wrist guards, knee or elbow pads.
- Use the right stuff. Be sure that sports protective equipment is in good condition and worn correctly all the time—for example, avoid missing or broken buckles or compressed or worn padding. Poorly fitting equipment may be uncomfortable and may not offer the best protection.
- Practice makes perfect. Have children learn and practice skills they need in their activity. For example, knowing how to tackle safely is important in preventing injuries in football and soccer. Have children practice proper form – this can prevent injuries during baseball, softball, and many other activities. Also, be sure to safely and slowly increase activities to improve physical fitness; being in good condition can protect kids from injury.
- Pay attention to temperature. Allow time for child athletes to gradually adjust to hot or humid environments to prevent heat-related injuries or illness. Parents and coaches should pay close attention to make sure that players are hydrated and appropriately dressed.
- Be a good model. Communicate positive safety messages and serve as a model of safe behavior, including wearing a helmet and following the rules.”
(Source: CDC website, Protect the Ones You Love: Child Injuries are Preventable, dated December 18, 2012).
Liever, Hyman & Potter, P.C. serves the injured, and their families, in Reading, Berks County; Pottsville, Schuylkill County and throughout Pennsylvania.