As a coach it is our responsibility to teach sports safety. Many experts say it 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 under 14 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 machines are very simple and easy to operate. The key is to use them properly. 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. Adult supervision is a mustwhile at the batting cages. There is something to be said about good adult supervision. 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 safe than sorry.

2. Protective gear such as batting helmets. Batting helmets are a mandatory product to help prevent or. Chin straps are good to keep a secure fit. Face guards have shown to prevent facial injuries.

3. Dry baseballs are also a key for a pitching machine. Balls will absorb moisture from many sources and become dangerous. Look out for bad pitches. Make sure that the pitching machine and baseballs are dry before use. 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 great pitch every time.

4. Common sense will take players a long way. Keep a player focused. Teach the player on what to do if there is a wild pitch. Teach the player how to move properly out of the way of a wild pitch.

5. Have a plan. Act quickly 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 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. Always pitch safety first.