How to Play Safely in Football
- 1). Find a safe location to play. If you are not playing on an actual football field, check the area you are playing for objects that could result in injuries. These objects include items such as sticks, rocks, holes in the ground and broken glass. Remove these objects if possible. If it is not possible, find another location to play.
- 2). Choose a location to play where someone can be notified quickly if an injury occurs that requires medical attention. If you are playing with a group of friends, make sure someone has a cellular phone or you are playing close to a home where emergency medical services can be called if necessary.
- 3). Wear the proper equipment. Make sure you are wearing athletic tennis shoes and clothing appropriate for playing football. If playing in an organized football game, make sure proper footwear, pads, and helmets are worn. If you are playing in a recreational game, wear proper footwear and any other protective equipment you own.
- 4). Wear the proper size football helmet. Football helmets are created to reduce the risk of injury. They will not do their job properly if you wear a helmet that is not the proper size for your head.
- 5). Play the game in a safe manner and by following the rules. When tackling do not try to hit another player with your head or helmet first. You should always hit with your head up so you can see the person that you are hitting. This reduces the risk of you injuring your own neck or injuring another player.
- 6). Stop playing if something doesn't feel right during the game. This could be a sign that you have been injured. Do not try to play with injuries like professional football players do.