Heat Index Guidelines in Place for Hudson Valley High School Athletics

After the hottest July on record, and August certainly not showing us any mercy, there have been several excessive heat warnings issued over the past few weeks. We've all been reminded to drink plenty of water, stay in air-conditioning, and not participate in strenuous activities during the hottest part of the day.

But what about our local high school athletes, specifically football players, whose pre-season practices have begun during these dog days of summer. Unfortunately, players have succumbed to the heat with some even dying from it. How can we protect our kids and their coaches? As it turns, out there are guidelines.

The New York State Public High School Athletic Association have guidelines that cover Heat Index as well as Wind Chill procedures. In addition, there's also Early Season Climate Acclimatization and Pre-Season Heat Acclimatization Guidelines for Secondary School Athletics.

Let's talk Heat Index procedures. According to the New York State Public High School Athletic Association, the heat index must be checked an hour before any activity begins. If the heat index is under 79 degrees: there's no restrictions; between 80 and 85: sufficient water and multiple breaks must be available; between 86 and 90 they require water breaks and 1 hour of recovery time for each hour of activity, plus athletes need to be monitored for heat sickness; between 91 and 95 water breaks must take place every 15 minutes plus the one hour of recovery time for each hour of practice and loose clothing should be worn with only football helmets and no other heavy gear; 96 degrees or greater and there shouldn't be any outside activity and inside activity can only occur if there's working air conditioning.

For the complete list of guidelines, click here. Does your school follow these guidelines? Let's spread the word and keep our kids and coaches safe.