Recognizing the signs and symptoms as early as possible allows for treatment and rapid recovery with hydration and cooling down the individual.
Early Symptoms
- Weakness or fatigue
- Headache and dizziness
- Nausea
- Muscle cramps
Neurological Signs
- Confusion or disorientation
- Irritability or aggression
- Slurred speech
- Hallucinations
Severe Indicators
- Body temperature above 104°F
- Loss of balance or falling down
- Throbbing headache
- Complaining of chills
Prevention Strategies
- Develop and implement a heat policy as part of your emergency action plan
- Frequently monitor environmental conditions using WBGT
- Follow heat acclimatization guidelines during preseason
- Ensure unlimited access to water during practices and games
- Educate staff on signs and symptoms of heat illness
- Have healthcare providers available at all events
When WBGT exceeds these levels, consider canceling or delaying activities:
- Region Category 1: >86.2°F
- Region Category 2: >89.9°F
- Region Category 3: >92.0°F
Work-to-Rest Ratios
| Alert Level |
WBGT Range |
Activity Guidelines |
| Black |
Extreme |
No outdoor training. Cancel or delay activities. |
| Red |
Very High |
Max 1 hour training with four 4-minute breaks. No conditioning. |
| Orange |
High |
Max 2 hours with four 4-minute breaks per hour. |
| Yellow |
Moderate |
Three 4-minute breaks per hour or 12-minute break every 40 minutes. |
| Green |
Low |
Normal activities with three 3-minute breaks per hour. |
Hydration Protocol
When WBGT reaches 89.6°F, implement hydration breaks of four minutes for each 30 minutes of continuous play. In a 90-minute match, schedule breaks at minute 30 and 75.
A comprehensive heat policy should include these elements:
- Prevention: Follow heat acclimatization guidelines and modify activities based on conditions
- Monitoring: Use WBGT devices to track environmental conditions
- Hydration: Increase breaks and ensure unlimited water access
- Adjustments: Shorten practices, reduce intensity, or postpone activities
- Emergency Response: Management plan for heat-related illnesses
- Education: Train staff to recognize symptoms and respond appropriately
- Medical Support: Have healthcare providers at all events
Days 1-5:
- One formal practice per day
- Maximum three hours of training (includes warm-up and cool-down)
- Avoid hottest part of day (11am-4pm)
Days 6-14:
- Double practice days may begin (max 5 hours total)
- Minimum 3-hour rest period between sessions in cool environment
- Double practice days followed by single practice day (max 3 hours)
- One day rest after six consecutive practice days