HOT CORNER

A consumer’s guide to the best and worst of sports media and merchandise. Ground rules: If it can be read, played, heard, observed, worn, viewed, dialed or downloaded, it’s in play here. One exception: No products will be endorsed.

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What: “See What You Hit” videotape.

Producer: Kestrel Communications, LLC.

Distributor: The Spine in Sports Foundation.

Price: Free.

Anyone who plays football, coaches football or knows someone who plays or coaches football should see this videotape. It was made to help prevent paralyzing spinal cord injuries caused by improper tackling techniques.

The tape emphasizes that the most important thing to do is to keep one’s head up when tackling. In other words, “See What You Hit.” Ron Lynn, the New England Patriot defensive backs coach, says, “If you’re going to play the game, it’s important that you play it correctly. It’s even more important that you play it safely. Keep your head up and be sure your eyes can see what you’re going to hit.”

The tape, which also features All-Pro defensive end Charles Haley, opens with the tragic story of Kenyana Tolbert. The star athlete from Little Rock, Ark., had won a basketball and football scholarship at Oklahoma State. But during a game in 1997, Tolbert’s senior season in high school, he dropped his head to make a tackle and has had to use a wheelchair since.

This tape has been delivered free to 15,000 high school and junior high programs. Information: www.spineinsports or (866) 847-7463. Donations can be sent to the Spine Foundation, P.O. Box 26368, Los Angeles 90026.

-- Larry Stewart