Written by: Doc Savarese Cartoon by: Peter Copen
Lately, conversations with family or friends often culminate with saying, “Stay Safe”. I asked myself, what does “Stay Safe” actually mean to people and how does it affect those that want to continue normalcy as much as possible? I decided to research this topic and share the results of my investigation.
Obviously the first safety issue is managing the pandemic. Most experts recommend maintaining awareness by supporting and respecting decisions made by various governing bodies that align with changing and current Covid-19 guidelines. The wearing of a mask can be divisive, particularly since my readings indicate that masks block the virus in varying degrees. However, the experts agree that all masks reduce air borne viral particles, which makes it easier for the immune system to fight the intruder.
The smoke and ash exposure due to wildfires is upon us. All smoke contains soot (particle matter), carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide. Other chemicals may be found depending upon what is burning and the temperature of the fire. Purpleair.com is an excellent resource to check air quality The bottom line is smoke inhalation can cause serious safety and health issues depending upon duration of exposure, age, and current health status. Caution is recommended for those people who exercise in a manner which causes more rapid and deep breathing, placing them at a higher risk. Expert advice is to stay in a place where there is as little smoke as possible.
Personal safety habits are also a major consideration which will allow you the ability to perform your desired activities. It’s important to keep your body working effectively which will reduce the risk of injury. Enough has been said about proper sleep and nutrition; however a reminder that keeping hydrated before, during and after any type of exercise is equally important to avoid cramps, fatigue and cognitive dysfunction. Caffeinated drinks are not advised as they can lead to dehydration. Another personal safety tip is that with any physical activity, adequate warm up and cool down is critical to reduce the risk of injury. Speaking of injury, listen to your body. Many times a person playing a sport with a minor injury exacerbates the injury with continued play. This leads to longer recovery time and in some cases, permanent forfeiture of the sport.
A safety tip which is often overlooked is maintaining good mental health. Taking care of yourself entails giving yourself enough space to understand your feelings, particularly relating to managing the stress and challenges of our current situation. Establishing a support network is an excellent starting point by providing the opportunity to share your feelings.
In conclusion, staying active is a great way to stay healthy as long as you take the proper safety measures. See you on the courts. Stay safe and healthy.
Note: The attached picture illustrates Sheila Ferguson, Joan Seliga and Lynn Yeager all properly wearing their masks at courtside. Peter Copen, our cartoonist, stated that he drew the cartoons with specific people in mind (can you guess who?).
Upcoming Event
Join the OPC team for the Alzheimer Association’s annual walk on Saturday, October 10! You do not need to be a Pickleball Club Member. You can walk, donate, fund raise or just join the team. Due to Covid-19, there is no group walk. You choose where to walk. You can sign up to be a Team Member at this website: http://act.alz.org/goto/OakmontPickleballClubTeam.
There will also be a raffle just for joining the team and for donations of $50 or more. There are prizes for everyone including: a Paddletek pickleball paddle, yoga classes, wine tastings, one-of- a-kind artwork, photographs, and handmade quilted items! Contact the team co-captains: lizmajkowski24@gmail.com or almccm@yahoo.com for more details.
New Player Orientation: Arrangements can be made by contacting Pauly Uhr at 984-4186 or Nancy Lande at 978-2998 to schedule a session.
No loaner paddles are available at this time.
