HEAT PRECAUTION-- A number of precautions are taken during football practices to provide safety in the heat.  Of course, everyone’s body is different and reacts to the heat in its own way; therefore, players must monitor their own body and give feedback to their coaches and trainer.

 1)  Trainer Mike takes readings with a “wet bulb” regularly throughout practice; the readings are similar to a heat index, and are compared to a chart which shows the coaching staff when activity should be toned down.  For example, when the readings are critical, helmets and/or shoulder pads are removed.  

2)  The most strenuous work (lifting, conditioning, etc.) is done before 11:00AM, during the coolest part of the day.

 3)  Five-minute Water breaks are provided regularly throughout practice.

 4)  Trainer Mike, and three student-trainers circulate around the practice field to offer water-bottles to student-athletes who request drinks between breaks.  

5)  The coaches look to shorten practice on days that are especially hot; for example 8/6 dismissed 30 minutes early, 8/7 dismissed almost 45 minutes early.

Things Student-Athletes can do to help their body deal with the heat:  

1)  Keep yourself hydrated around the clock, not just while at practice.

2)  Avoid beverages with caffeine.

3)  Avoid beverages with carbonation.