Safe Kids Week

Originally Released: May 8, 2000
Contact: Ellen Beth Levitt, eblevitt@umm.edu, 410-328-8919
Karen Hardingham, R.N. 410-328-7532

UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND MEDICAL CENTER CELEBRATES SAFE KIDS WEEK, MAY 6-13

Participation in sports and recreational activities can play an important role in a child's development. Sports participation can improve physical fitness, coordination, self-discipline, cooperation, and provide personal satisfaction. However, children also run the risk of serious injury.

According to the National SAFE KIDS Coalition, nearly one million children are treated at emergency rooms for sports-related injuries each year. One out of every four of these injuries is considered serious, including concussions, broken bones, torn ligaments, dislocated joints, and lacerations. Yet, nearly half of all sports injuries are preventable.

To help keep children safe this summer, the Baltimore SAFE KIDS Coalition at the University of Maryland Medical Center offers these safety tips:

Children should always wear appropriate safety gear when participating in sports and other physical activities, including helmets, pads, and eye protectors.
Make sure children receive proper training and physical conditioning.
Provide children a safe playing environment.
Make sure children are adequately supervised and enforce safety rules.
Match children with others of similar skill levels, size, weight, and physical maturity.
Ensure that children drink an adequate amount of liquids while playing and wear sunscreen outdoors.

For more information, contact the Baltimore SAFE KIDS Coalition at 410-328-7532.

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This page was last updated on: April 10, 2009.