Tips for safer hockey

Here are some ways to be safe while playing hockey:

• Wear shoulder pads, hockey-style shin guards, elbow pads, hip pads, groin protectors, and gloves. The gloves should be long enough to go well up the forearm, overlapping the elbow pads. Padded hockey pants can also help reduce injuries.

• Wear a hockey-style helmet with a full-face mask and mouth guard correctly strapped to prevent concussions and face injuries. Look for equipment approved by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.

• Protective sports glasses with shatterproof plastic, called polycarbonate lens, should be worn. Regular eyeglasses, sunglasses, and contacts do not protect kids from eye injuries. Most protective eye wear can be made to match kids glasses or contact prescriptions.

• Drink plenty of water before and during play. A quart an hour isn't too much.

• Keep your head up in a collision. Players who duck their heads in collisions are more likely to suffer possible paralyzing spinal cord injuries than those who keep their necks straight.

• Play on a smooth, flat, clean surface like a fenced parking lot or basketball court. Never play in an alley or street. Place cushions against posts, curbs, and other possible dangers.