Heisman Sports Safety

Baseball is often referred to as “America’s favorite past time,” but many believe that football is

America’s game. The Super Bowl is the biggest sports event of the year, and college football

constantly dominates headlines in the fall. However, since football is such a demanding and

physical sport, injuries can be common and sometimes serious enough to lead to a trip to the

emergency room.

How do you protect your kids from injury and accidents with all of their sports and activities?  We've had a few minor crashes and hits over the years.  I am relentless when it comes to helmet safety, but I don't confine my kids with safety over their natural exploration tendencies.

When it came to football sign ups this year, my son opted not to play.  He has taken a few really big hits and weighed his own risks.  He said he didn't want to take a big hit to the head.  I completely respect his decision.  To help your children learn how to keep things as safe as possible on the football field, follow these tips:

1) Football = lots of gear!

Some equipment may look “optional,” but it is important to wear all necessary pads and safety

gear each time you play. If you show up for a practice or game without it, alert your coach

immediately.

2) Follow the rules

While physical prowess is central to football, you must obey the rules. In the heat of the moment

it’s easy to forget, but there is a reason why things like tripping, clipping, blocking below the

knees and helmet-to-helmet contact are illegal in football: they can be very dangerous to both

you and your opponents.

3) Listen to your body

If at any point you feel pain or discomfort while playing, notify your coach and get out of the

game. While sitting on the sidelines is one of the most difficult situations a player can face,

pushing through injuries increases the severity and keeps you out of action longer.

4) Take the doctor’s orders

After experiencing a sports injury, the first question a player often asks is, "When can I play

again?" The answer depends on the injury. Always listen to your doctor. Even if you can't return

right away, a doctor or physical therapist might have suggestions and advice on what you can

do to stay fit and rehab the injury. It is important to always check with a doctor before attempting

any activity following an injury.

5) Make sure you’re covered

Accidents happen. When unexpected injuries happen on the football field, make sure you’re

prepared with supplemental insurance to help cover out-of-pocket expenses. According to

the 2014 Aflac WorkForces Report, 66 percent of U.S. workers could not afford the costs

associated with a serious illness or injury. That’s why voluntary insurance plans are so

important. In the event of a serious injury, they help provide peace of mind and cash benefits to

help you get back in the game fast.

Is your mountain biking concussion covered?!

Who doesn't love the Aflac duck?  Are you the ultimate college football fan? If so, this #AflacSweeps is for you! Three lucky fans will win a trip for two, a pair of tickets to one of three college football games in November, a chance to meet Desmond Howard and more. Enter once per 24 hours on Facebook; for bonus entries, share on Twitter.  Enter today and then spread the word to let your friends know it’s #GameOn!

Each prize package includes:

• Two tickets to the biggest college football game of the weekend.

• Meet & greet with Desmond Howard.

• Round trip airfare.

• Hotel accommodations.

• Ground transportation to and from events.

• $500 prepaid debit card for food and other expenses.

CONSUMER NOTICE: NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. PURCHASE WILL NOT INCREASE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED OR RESTRICTED BY LAW. Open to legal permanent residents of 50 U.S. states and DC, 21 or older, who have Internet access and valid email address prior to 08/28/14. To enter and for Official Rules, including odds and prize descriptions, click here: https://www.facebook.com/aflacduck/app_143103275748075. This sweepstakes is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook or Twitter. For a winner's list (after 11/10/14), visit the Ultimate College Football Experience tab of this page or mail request to Aflac "Ultimate College Football Experience" (Specify Winner List), Media Relations, 1932 Wynnton Road, Columbus, GA 31999. Sponsor: American Family Life Assurance Company of Columbus.

@AflacDuck on Twitter, Aflac Duck on Facebook

I was selected for this opportunity as a member of Clever Girls and the content and opinions expressed here are all my own.