While creating guidelines to help coaches and parents identify when it is safe for a concussed minor child to return to sports; there is potential harm to coaches and sport organizations. Two federal House committees are each working on a federal bill to propose legislation to protect youth from the harms of concussions. One bill is intended to gather experts to draft guidelines on how to manage concussions then dangle a carrot of incentive by offering federal grants to states to establish standards. The other bill would mandate public school districts adopt or adhere to certain standards.

While watching a college soccer match earlier today I was reminded of the importance of having a strong head official. I watched one team play dirty because they were clearly outmatched by the technical footwork of their opponents. The head referee set the tone of intolerance against dirty playing early in the game by giving out a yellow card within the first several minutes of play. Furthermore, he was consistent in his calls throughout the match.

Disaster planning is often beyond the scope of what can be done by someone without formal training or experience. Hiring an expert who is trained in emergency management to review your safety and facility plans may be worth the price.

While you must pay for expert advice, there are an increasing number of experts to choose from. Universities are increasingly offering courses and degrees in variations of emergency management. Typical training includes planning for situations involving natural and manmade emergencies.