One of the pleasant things about living in Homestead or anywhere in South Florida is that the warm weather and beautiful climate allows for plenty of outdoor sports. Whether you enjoy playing beach volleyball, baseball, football, or any other sport, you can do so outside in green spaces, fields, and outdoor recreation areas across the state.
Outdoor spaces do provide their own dangers, however. In order to stay safe you will want to:
- Stay cool: Be aware that playing sports outside, especially for extended periods of time, can be extremely exhausting in high heat and bright sun. Make sure you apply liberal amounts of sweat-proof sunscreen designed for sports use. Wear light clothing that allows your skin to breathe and allows you to move. Try to play in the morning and evening, when high heat and the sun are not at their peak. Stay alert to how you feel and be ready to head indoors or for the shade when you need to. Protect your eyes with sunglasses or a hat. Stay hydrated and take frequent breaks to drink and rest.
- Avoid overdoing it: Make sure you warm up. If you find yourself overheating during play or practice or find yourself getting dizzy or otherwise showing signs of heat related illness, take some time in the shade to relax. Take the time to build up to long sports sessions or practices gradually, building your strength and endurance. You will reduce the risk of injuries, as well, if you stick with the level of activity appropriate for your fitness level.
- Be alert for uneven ground: One of the dangers of playing outside is that there may be uneven ground, rocks hidden under grass, or even holes in the ground. Always check the field before you start playing for any possible issues. Play on groomed fields where possible, as they are designed for play and are maintained for your safety.
- Look out for plants: When you play, look out for long grass, which may hide insects and uneven ground and can cause tripping injuries. Also look out for any varieties of plants which can cause rashes.
- Choose your spot carefully: Play on groomed areas designed for sports where possible. Look for areas which are far from water and provide good grip and good soil conditions. Where possible, play somewhere where you’re not in direct sunlight and are at least partly in shade.
- Plan for the conditions: Always check the weather forecast before heading outside to play. Make sure you have the correct equipment for the heat. Consider playing indoors in a climate-controlled environment if the day will be too hot or too sunny. Avoid playing during rains were thunderstorms may be a possibility. You don’t want to be in the middle of the field when lightning strikes.
If you have been injured on a recreational area or sports field, you may have a legal claim if the owner of the field did not take proper care in providing you with a safe surface. To find out whether you have a claim, contact Flaxman Law Group at 1-866-352-9626 (1-866-FLAXMAN) for a free accident consultation with a Homestead premises liability attorney.