As a coach it is our responsibility to teach sports safety. Many experts say it is the number one responsibility of any reputable baseball coach. 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 under 14 playing organized baseball and softball. There are three times that playing the game recreationally. Last year there were over 150,000 players treated in hospital emergency rooms for baseball and softball related injuries.

Baseball pitching machines 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 easy ways to prevent getting hurt when operating a pitching machine.

1. Make sure that an adult is always presentwhile at the batting cages. There is something to be said about good adult supervision. We as adults are supposed to be older and wiser. Everyone can remember being a kid. As children we feared nothing. Coaches and parents look for hidden dangers. If you see something, point it out to the player. It is always better to be safe than sorry.

2. Batting helmets are a must. Batting helmets Proper fit is a key to safety. Chin straps are good to keep a secure fit. Face guards will also help eliminate facial injuries.

3. Dry baseballs are also a key for a pitching machine. Balls will absorb moisture from many sources and become dangerous. Wild pitches are soon to follow. 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 absorb moisture. 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 the player how to move properly out of the way of a wild pitch.

5. Make a plan. Act quickly if an injury occurs. Have a properly stocked first aid kit and know what to do in case of an emergency.

I have been to a pregame and witness this happen. I was coaching an away game and a young palyer 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 precautions 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.