As a parent who cherishes quality time at the ballpark, it’s crucial to be aware of the potential risks that come with the territory. This message is especially for those who, like me, seek a simple evening of family fun without understanding the hidden dangers lurking in the stands.
Last spring, my family’s outing took a turn I never anticipated. My children had won tickets to a local minor league game through a reading incentive program. The weather was perfect, and we were excited about the fireworks planned for after the game. Surrounded by my kids’ friends and their families, we settled in for what we thought would be a delightful evening.
As the game approached the ninth inning, the excitement in the air was palpable. The kids, buzzing with energy, moved to the front row, eager to be closer to the action, leaning against the concrete barrier that separated the spectators from the field. Noticing the absence of parents returning their children to their seats, I realized a lesson was unfolding.
I was sitting just a few rows back when I suddenly heard my husband shout, “Heads up!” In the blink of an eye, a line drive zoomed toward me at over 100 mph. There was no time to react—no opportunity to dodge or catch the ball. I was rushed to the trauma unit and spent three days in the hospital, my right eye permanently injured.
Through my advocacy for fan safety, I’ve learned that incidents like mine are far too common, and the consequences can be devastating. Before that day, I assumed I could easily avoid a stray ball, but the reality is that there’s not even enough time for your brain to process what’s happening, especially for a child. Just recently, a seven-year-old boy was struck at a college stadium in Missouri and remains in ICU, while a toddler suffered a severe injury at Yankee Stadium last fall. These dangers exist at every level of baseball, from major leagues to local parks.
Parents, it’s essential to stay vigilant at ballparks. While many venues promote family-friendly events, they often do little to safeguard fans from line drives and broken bats. Baseball organizations are aware of these risks yet fail to adequately inform the public. My injury occurred in a minor league park, where the proximity to the field intensifies the danger.
When attending games with children, always opt for seats behind protective netting. Don’t hesitate to ask for a different location if you feel unsafe. And remember, just because there’s no netting beyond the dugouts doesn’t mean it’s safe; I was seated beyond them and still sustained a serious injury.
I learned this lesson the hard way and now feel compelled to share it. Please advocate for your safety—if your local park doesn’t have netting extending to the foul poles or at least the far end of the dugouts, reach out and inquire why. Your safety should be their top priority.
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In summary, always prioritize safety at the ballpark to ensure a fun and enjoyable experience for your family.
Keyphrase: baseball game safety for families
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