Regardless of the winner of Sunday’s World Cup final, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission wants children that play soccer to come out on top. That is why we are taking this opportunity to remind Kane County residents about the dangers of movable soccer goals.

Since 1979, CPSC has received reports of at least 36 deaths resulting from these types of goals falling over on people. And, between 2000 and 2012, children younger than 16 years of age were treated for 2,600 injuries associated with falling soccer goals.

Tell parents and care givers not to let children play on a field that does not have the soccer goals properly anchored. Share the CPSC safety alert “Moveable Soccer Goals Can Fall Over on Children” and urge them to check with their children’s schools, recreation centers and coaches to make sure they are following the safety tips. The alert is available in English at http://1.usa.gov/1myqJvE and in Spanish at http://1.usa.gov/1qjFVRg.

Movable Soccer Goals Can Fall Over On Children

Movable soccer goals can fall over and kill or injure children who climb on them or hang from  the crossbar. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has reports of at least 35  deaths since 1979 resulting from soccer goals falling over. Both homemade and professionally  manufactured soccer goals are involved in these incidents.

To help prevent deaths and injuries associated with soccer goals, follow these safety suggestions.

• Securely anchor or counter-weight movable soccer goals at all times (see illustration).
• Never climb on the soccer net or goal framework.
• Always instruct soccer players on the safe handling of and potential dangers associated with movable soccer goals.
• Use movable soccer goals only on level (flat) fields.
• Check all connecting hardware before every use. Replace damaged or missing fasteners immediately.
• Ensure safety labels are clearly visible.
• Remove nets when goals are not in use.
• Anchor or chain goals to nearby fence posts, dugouts or similar sturdy fixtures when not in use.
• Fully disassemble goals for seasonal storage.

A voluntary safety standard for soccer goals and a guide for safer use are available from ASTM International at www.ASTM.org

SOURCE: U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission