Now that school has started in Franklin and Hart counties, the weather is still hot and humid and students involved in school athletics need to take extra precautions this time of year during practice times to avoid heat-related illness. The American Red Cross of Georgia offers coaches and staff 10 Strategies to Protect Students During Outdoor Workouts as Temperatures Climb 1. Adjust practice times Avoid outdoor workouts during the hottest parts of the day. Schedule practices for early morning or evening or move activities indoors when possible. 2. Ease into intensity Gradually increase workout intensity to allow athletes time to acclimate to the heat. 3. Stay consistently hydrated Encourage athletes to drink about a cup of water every 20 minutes, even if they don’t feel thirsty. Limit sugary and caffeinated beverages. 4. Prioritize proper warmups Even experienced athletes should stretch and prepare their muscles before strenuous activity to help prevent injuries. 5. Take frequent breaks Build in regular breaks, ideally every 20 minutes, for athletes to rest, cool down and hydrate, preferably in shaded areas. 6. Modify equipment and clothing Reduce the use of heavy gear in extreme heat. Encourage lightweight, light-colored, breathable clothing whenever possible. 7. Use the buddy system Encourage athletes to look out for one another by reminding teammates to hydrate and watching for signs of heat-related illness. 8. Know the warning signs Recognize the symptoms of heat…
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