Baseball Safety

Baseball, along with softball and teeball, are among the most popular sports in the United States. Not only do we love to go to the ballgame, but many of us play the game, too. Approximately six million children ages five to 14 participate in organized baseball leagues and 13 million participate in non-league play. Among athletes in this age group, 25 percent of those who played baseball, and 12 percent of those who played softball have been injured at some point during either the season or training for the season.

Prevention

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission suggests  the following safety equipment be used to help reduce the number and severity of these injuries:

•         Softer than "standard" baseballs when practicing or for inexperienced players
•         Safety-release bases to prevent injuries while sliding
•         Batting helmets with face guards for everyone

It's also vital to ensure that you or your kids are properly dressed. Are you wearing the right shoes? If you're playing competitive baseball, men should wear an athletic cup. Kneepads, gloves, and other accessories may all be important parts of making the game safer, while still keeping all of the competitive energy and enthusiasm intact.