No matter how safe a game or sport is, the fact still remains that there’s just no such thing as a pastime that’s guaranteed to be accident- (or incident-) free. This holds true for bike riding, jogging, baseball, and even airsoft guns. But just like everything else, if you use the proper safety techniques, are aware of some of the basic mishaps and carry a suitable first aid kit, you’ll be able to enjoy a worry-free day of airsoft fun.

First on our list of safety topics is the all-important first aid kit. While most of the major playing fields and areas will have a substantial kit or a medical professional available, you might want to consider the possibility of injury when you’re well out of range of the base. For this reason and many others, you should always carry a personal-sized first aid kit. Most discount retailers, convenience stores and pharmacies carry the “ready-made" kits for you to grab and go, or you can make your own for a lot less money. It needs to be the right size to carry with you at all times, but also needs to hold the essentials like waterproof band-aids, eye-wash pods (to get dust and other tiny, foreign objects out of eyes), Tylenol or Advil, wound dressing, wound disinfecting spray and medical tape. Remember that you’ll want to treat a small cut or abrasion early on before it gets infected and becomes a real problem.

It also might be a good idea to carry a cold-pack and an Ace bandage or other flexible support with you in your gear bag to aid in any ankle or wrist twists that may happen during your adventure. Slipping on wet grass or leaves, or turning holding your airsoft rifle incorrectly for a prolonged period of time can have quite an impact on certain body parts.

But the most important of all safety tips is to wear your protective gear like gloves and other body coverings. Always use your protective eyewear according to the manufacturer’s instructions, as eye injuries can be some of the most painful of all. If your eye ruptures, there is a good chance that you will lose your eyesight permanently, so don’t try to “look cool" by skipping protective eyewear!

Common sense reminds us to know our bodies when heading out for a safe day of airsoft. If you have weak ankles, be sure to wear the proper footwear and ankle support for a long day on your feet. If you’re prone to back pain, a back brace or other support will help to keep you comfortable and pain free while you spend some relaxing time practicing the latest maneuvers and tactics in the realm of airsoft guns.