Unfortunately every year we hear about some vaulter (High School or College) that let go, landed in the box upside down, and becomes paralyzed or worse. This type of tragedy should be recognized as a potential risk and we all need to do everything we can to avoid this type of injury (as well as lesser injuries).  To start, each vaulter needs proper technique, coaching, supervision, and the keep in mind the following:

1. Pole Vaulting should always be supervised by a coach that understands the potential dangers of the event.
2. Do NOT let go of the pole until you are absolutely certain you will land safely in the landing pits. If ANYthing goes wrong, DO NOT LET GO, hold on and ride your pole safely into the pits. If needed, you can guide yourself down and run out of a bad or dangerous situation. DO NOT LET GO of the pole. If you do, you will then be in free fall and you WILL get hurt, the only question is "how bad".
   
3. Athletes should progress at a pace consistent with the athletes ability. This helps to build the awareness of the vault as the complexity increases and the potential for injury (because you are higher off the ground or have more energy in the pole).
4. Always check poles and pits before each and every practice. Don't rely on other athletes, meet officials, or coaches to do this for you. It's your neck - nobody is going to look out for it as much as you.
5. Gripping too high on too soft a pole can cause a wide variety of accidents (and cheats you out of height). Move up to a heavier pole.
6. Do not vault when conditions are substandard. Rain, high wind, poor runway or pits are hazards to be dealt with intelligently. Remember "Hurt vaulters clear no heights".
7. Learn to plant early, high and straight, prior to raising your grip or moving your run back. Always maintain good body posture throughout the run, takeoff, rock back, and landing.
8. Learn to land in the center of the pit on every jump. PAY ATTENTION if you aren't getting enough penetration and either correct your form (more speed, more penetration, higher plant, whatever is lacking) or move down a grip or a pole.
9. If landing to the sides of the pit make sure the pole is directly overhead at takeoff and doesn't drift to either side after takeoff.
10. It is NOT necessary to bend the pole to pole vault (the old guys were jumping 15'6" by stick vaulting).
11. Help other vaulters by catching their pole and steps. Remember we all want to get better, we are competing against ourself only.
12. Don't allow "accidents waiting to happen" to vault with you. The pole vault is no place for horse-play.
13. Do not EVER under ANY circumstances vault at any facility that you think is unsafe in ANY way. Missing a single meet, no matter what level of competition (even the Olympics) pales in comparison to losing your ability to walk or your life.
14. Take whatever precautionary steps you and your coach feel are necessary. Do not be influenced by other atheletes, coaches, officials, fans, or anybody who would say that a specific item of protective gear or safety measure "looks dumb" or is "uncool". They do not have your best interests in mind. Safety is key and must be kept in mind at all times.


Safety Has to come FIRST. Do NOT take chances. PERIOD.

Finally, be aware of the risks. Pole Vaulting is not for everyone. If you think that it is too risky, there are many other events and sports that are fun without the risk elements. Realize that pole vaulting may or may not have a place in your life. For most, it is a hobby at best. While the elite few make it to the Olympics, most just enjoy it as a fun activity. Realize it as that. A fun activity. Keep this in mind as eventually you will move on to other activities. School must come before vaulting, and your safety is always paramount. Do not take risks in an activity that is just a hobby. There is far more to your life than vaulting will ever be.