Youth Sports Safety

All parents want to keep their kids safe when they participate in local sports leagues. Here are some tips from the National Council of Youth Sports:

• Get a physical. Before they play, make an appointment with a physician to ensure their readiness to participate.
• Check equipment. Make sure their equipment is in good working condition, including onsite medical devices, such as AEDs.
• Beat the heat. Always check the weather before practices and games. Make sure your child has plenty of water and uses sunscreen. Watch for signs of heat exhaustion, including fatigue and dizziness.

To schedule a physical, contact your child’s pediatrician. Physicals are also available by calling the Marshall Sports Medicine Institute at 304-691-1880, Marshall Pediatrics at 304-691-1300 or Marshall Family Medicine at 304-691-1100.