Children should always wear sport-specific, properly fitting safety gear when participating in sports.
Make sure children are prepared for the demands of playing a sport.
All children should receive a general health exam before enrolling in any sport.
Provide children with proper aerobic conditioning and skills-building when they are learning a new sport so they are physically and psychologically conditioned for its demands.
Ensure that children drink an adequate amount of liquids before and during athletic activities. Provide frequent rest periods during hot or humid weather.
Adult supervision is essential.
Adults should be present at all times to ensure a safe playing environment and the enforcement of safety rules.
Children should be grouped according to skill level, weight and physical maturity - especially for contact sports.
Ask about the safety-related policies of your local sports leagues.
Coaches and other on-field personnel should be trained in first aid and CPR.
Sport-Specific Safety Equipment Checklist
Baseball and Softball: Batting helmet, shin guards, elbow guards, athletic supporters (males), mouth guard, sunscreen, cleats, hat and detachable “breakaway bases.”
Basketball: Mouth guard, athletic supporters (males), proper shoes, eye protection, elbow and kneepads and water.
