Getting hit in the head by a baseball traveling over 90 mph can be fatal. Tripping on a baseball left on the ground can put you in the hospital. Knowing how to safeguard yourself from the dangers of being around a baseball backstop is something that needs to be taught at a young age, and must be practiced at all times.
Inspect the Backstop
Some backstops due to age or extended use have deteriorated and have become a potential safety hazard. Before things get started on the field, inspect the entire backstop netting area, noting whether there are openings large enough for a ball to get through. Also check to see if the backstop frame has been bent or damaged, allowing pop flies to potentially sail behind the backstop. Mark the hazardous areas by tying a piece of ribbon or short length of caution tape to the netting, and be sure to alert the local parks and recreation department of the issue.
Wear Proper Gear
Errant fly balls, falling equipment racks and swinging bats from nearby players are commonly found flying around backstops. Because of these constantly flying objects, it is important to always be wearing a batting helmet when standing in or around the backstop. Racks of helmets should be kept in the dugout near the exit, and all players need to put one on before leaving. If you bat right-handed, you wear a helmet that has an ear flap on the left side, if you bat left, the flap should be on the right side, and if you are a switch hitter, the helmet should be dual flapped.
Stay Behind the Netting
Whether it be during a game or just practice, the safest place on the field is behind the netting of the backstop. Even so, some safety guidelines need to be followed behind the net. A distance of at least 3 feet should be kept from the backstop at all times. Do not lean up against the net, even if it's made of metal, as batted balls that are hit straight back can still partially come through the mesh openings. Equipment should also not be hung on the backstop mesh netting, as an errant ball could displace the equipment and send it flying into another player.
Heads Up
Check to see if the backstop has an overhead frame above the batter. If not, or if the frame is only partially hanging over, foul balls are almost guaranteed to come behind the backstop at some point. Always keep your attention on the batter and follow the ball closely if it's a pop fly. Even if it looks like there is no chance of it heading into foul territory, winds can pick up and change without a moments notice, and balls that look like they may stay in play can come down right on top of you.
Keep it Clean
Always keep the ground area around and behind the backstop clear. All equipment should be kept either in the dugout, or a designated area out of the way of regular foot traffic. It is not uncommon for a player to be paying close attention to the game on the field, wearing a batting helmet and staying 3 feet away from the netting, only to suffer an injury by tripping on a bat or loose baseball.
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