When the last school bell rings in June, the summer fun begins. Make sure this summer is a safe one. There are many injuries that can be avoided with a few precautions.

Start Slowly: When starting a new sport, always start gradually. Build up the strength and skills for the sport through increased stretching and warm-ups, followed by practice. Always warm up and cool down to protect your muscles and joints. After any sports injury, don’t rush back to full speed. Take time to recover fully. Don’t risk a re-injury. It may be ever more difficult and time consuming to recover from.

Look for Signs: Keep an eye out for warning signs of an injury. Not all injuries are easy to recognize immediately. Look out for limping, difficulty sleeping or breathing, head or muscle aches, or a reduced interest in the sport. Always listen to your body and seek medical advice when something seems out of the ordinary. Never play with an injury. That can make the injury worse and more difficult to treat.

Dress the Part: Always wear the right equipment for the sport. Make sure it fits properly so it will be effective. Footwear should be tied tightly. Avoid loose-fitting clothing that could cause tripping.

Prevent Facial Injuries: When biking, playing baseball, or skating, always wear a helmet. Use mouth guards and other facial protection when necessary for a sport or activity. Avoid sliding headfirst into bases. Never dive into a pool of less than 9 feet deep. Follow all rules and policies at any sports facility.

Know the Field: Make sure you are aware of any potential hazards in a sporting area. Whether it is a baseball field or a skateboard park, be aware of changes in the playing surface or dangerous objects that could cause you to trip and twist or break something. Be aware of the weather as well. Extremely high temperatures require more hydration and rest. Wet weather can lead to slippery conditions.

Remember to always wear waterproof sunscreen of at least 30 SPF when participating in outdoor sports. Keep hydrated throughout all practices and games. Be a winner on the field and off by following these simple summer sports rules.

For more information about keeping your family safe this summer, please contact us at Lawnwood Regional Medical Center and Heart Institute. Visit us online or call 1-800-446-6956 for answers to your questions.

Source:

American Academy of Pediatrics

Related Posts:

Save Lives with Seatbelts

Summer Safety: Avoiding Sports Injuries