As football season approaches, coaches are finalizing rosters, athletic directors are checking equipment, and parents are making sure their athletes are ready for the first whistle.
But one of the most important preseason preparations often happens before the first practice ever begins: creating a comprehensive football safety plan.
Today’s game is safer than it has ever been thanks to advances in coaching techniques, concussion protocols, equipment technology, and athlete education. Preparing for the season means looking at player safety from every angle—not just one.
Whether you’re a head coach, athletic director, athletic trainer, or parent, this football season safety checklist can help ensure your team is ready for kickoff.
A helmet is only effective if it’s properly maintained and fitted.
Before preseason practices begin:
✔ Inspect helmets for cracks or damage
✔ Verify NOCSAE certification requirements
✔ Replace worn chin straps and hardware
✔ Confirm every helmet fits correctly
✔ Recondition helmets when required
A properly fitted helmet remains the foundation of football safety.
As more states introduce soft-shell helmet cover legislation, schools across the country are evaluating supplemental protective equipment as part of their football safety strategy.
While no helmet cover can eliminate the risk of concussion, many programs are adding soft-shell helmet covers to help reduce repetitive head impacts during practices and games.
When evaluating a helmet cover, ask:
The goal isn’t simply adding another piece of equipment—it’s making informed decisions backed by science.
Learn more about SAFR Helmet Covers and independent testing.
Every coach should understand:
Everyone on the sideline should know the plan before the season begins.
Player safety begins long before game day. Schedule dedicated time during preseason to reinforce:
Technique remains one of the most effective tools for reducing unnecessary head impacts.
Parents have more questions than ever before. Host a preseason meeting covering:
Transparency builds trust.
Review:
Preparation saves valuable time when every second matters.
Inspect:
Small maintenance issues become major problems during the season.
Many preseason practices occur during the hottest weeks of the year. Review:
Heat safety is player safety.
Several states—including Rhode Island, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and California—have recently introduced legislation related to soft-shell helmet covers and football safety.
Even if your state hasn’t proposed legislation yet, understanding these developments can help your program prepare for future requirements.
Stay informed so your school isn’t caught off guard.
The safest football programs don’t rely on one product. They build a culture. A culture where:
That’s how football continues moving forward.
No single piece of equipment can eliminate concussion risk.
Football safety is built through multiple layers working together.
From proper coaching and medical oversight to quality equipment and supplemental helmet protection, every decision contributes to creating a safer experience for student-athletes.
As your program prepares for the upcoming season, take time to review your safety plan, evaluate your equipment, and ensure every athlete has the resources they need to compete with confidence.
The future of football depends on our commitment to continually improving player safety—one practice, one player, and one season at a time.
Inspect equipment, review concussion protocols, educate parents, reinforce proper tackling techniques, inspect helmets, and evaluate supplemental protective equipment such as soft-shell helmet covers.
Requirements vary by state. Several states have introduced legislation related to soft-shell helmet covers, while others are evaluating similar proposals.
No. No helmet or helmet cover can eliminate concussion risk. They are intended to help reduce head impact forces as one component of a comprehensive football safety strategy.
Visit our Shop to explore SAFR Helmet Covers, review independent testing, and learn how programs across the country are incorporating supplemental helmet protection into their player safety plans.
