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Sports safety: Concussions, school back in session

On Behalf of | Oct 5, 2018 | Personal Injury, Safety |

School Year Hazards: Sports Safety

Playing a sport is a great way to build strong character in children. Learning to play on a team, following instructions, and, of course, getting good exercise are all benefits of participating in a sport. Many children join sports teams at their schools, whereas others join community sports teams. No matter where these children play sports, however, those in charge must follow certain safety guidelines.

First, coaches and other administrators should make sure that all participants are physically and mentally fit to play a sport. Children should not be forced to participate in sports if they truly do not want to play. Additionally, any health conditions should be carefully monitored throughout the season.

Every sports team should have medical professionals available to provide medical care to players in the event of an emergency. These medical professionals’ credentials should be thoroughly examined by coaches and team administrators.

When the weather begins to warm up, team players should be acclimatized to the weather over a two-week period. By doing so, players will increase their exercise heat tolerance and reduce the risk of suffering heat-related injuries, such as heat stroke. Coaches and other team administrators should be trained to recognize the signs of heat-related injuries, as well as treatment for the same.

Team players should always be encouraged to report the symptoms of a concussion. Team players should be regularly informed of the signs of a concussion as well, and coaches should know what steps to take if a player exhibits signs of a head injury. Coaches should pay close attention during championship games or other big league games, as players may be less willing to report concussion injuries if they are afraid they will be unable to participate in the game.

It is strongly recommended that schools and other sports facilities have automated external defibrillators (AED) on site. The AED should be located in a spot that allows it to be transported to a player within 3 to 5 minutes. Additionally, officials should assume that an unresponsive player who has collapsed is in cardiac arrest. Coaches and other administrators should be trained in the use of AEDs.

Schools and sports facilities should ensure that all equipment used in sports practices and in games is up to date on safety regulations and is in good condition. Many players have been injured by faulty or defective equipment. Helmets, pads, and other items should be regularly examined to ensure they are not broken or weak.

Finally, emergency plans should be set in place, and these plans should be reviewed by the team’s hired medical professional. For example, the location of emergency medical equipment should be noted, as well as the procedures in place for treating specific injuries and notifying parents of the same.

Was your child was involved in a sports-related accident, if so, contact our New Jersey accident attorneys today

If your school-aged child was injured while playing a sport, you may be entitled to compensation. If it is proven that another individual or entity’s negligence directly caused the injury, you may be able to recover damages. To schedule a free consultation to evaluate your legal options, call 732-482-9285 or contact us online.