THE BASEBALL GUIDE

Teaching sports safety is the number one responsibility of any good coach or parent. Players need to learn to practice good safety in every sport. The great sport of baseball is no different. Baseball and softball is among the most popular sport in the United States. In the United States there are over 6 million kids from the ages of 6 ? 15 playing organized baseball and softball. There are over 15 million playing on non organized teams. In 2005 there were an estimate of 175,000 kids treated in hospital emergency rooms for baseball and softball related injuries.

Baseball pitching machine are very simple and easy to operate. Proper use is the right thing to do. I have been to many of practices and watch untrained coaches and players use equipment and get hurt. Here are 5 key tips to reduce of chance of injury when using a pitching machine.

1. Adult supervision is a must. As adults we are good role models for our players. We as adults are supposed to be more mature and smarter. We can all remember what it was like to be young. When we were kids we thought we were invincible. Coaches and parents look for hidden dangers. Make sure the player is aware of possible dangers. It is always better to be prepared.

2. Batting helmets are a must. Batting helmets offer great protection to lessen the chance of head or facial injuries. Proper fit is a key to safety. Chin straps are good to keep the helmet in place. Face guards will also help eliminate facial injuries.

3. Dry baseballs are also a key for a pitching machine. Balls that become wet by rain or the morning dew can play havoc. Look out for bad pitches. Use proper care of the pitching machine. Always use dry baseballs. Keep mind that a good solution is pitching machine baseballs. They are designed not to retain water. The pitching machine baseballs will give a batter a consistent pitch every time.

4. Common sense will take players a long way. Have the player focused. Teach the player on what to do if the ball is coming at them. Teach them proper technique on how to get out of the way of a wild pitch.

5. Make a plan. Make sure you know what to do if an injury occurs. Have a properly stocked first aid kit and always have a cell phone close by in case of an emergency.

I have been to a pregame and witness this happen. I was watching an away game and a young athlete was getting loose in a batting cage, not paying attention and he got hit in the face high on his cheekbone. I know that it could have been prevented if only proper instruction would have been taken. No matter what the age of the athlete is, stay out of the hospital emergency room and stay on the baseball field. Safety is the best game to play.