Health Tip: Use Football Safety Equipment Correctly

(HealthDay News) — The correct protective gear can help keep kids safer while they’re playing football.

The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests that:

Your child’s protective gear is well maintained and fits properly.
Shoe laces should be properly tied, and the child’s shoes should match the playing surface.
The football uniform and all padding should fit correctly. Don’t remove any padding.
Shoulder pads should coordinate with user’s chest measurements.
Pads should never move up to the neck when the arms are lifted.
Eyebrows should be about 1 inch below the edge of the helmet, the back of the head should be covered, and the ears should fit in the center of the helmet’s ear spaces.
Face masks should be attached and the chin strap fastened snugly to prevent any movement.
All players should wear a mouth guard.