As we continue to prepare for the first day of school, please be aware that extremely hot and humid weather is expected in the upcoming days. As the temperature continues to rise, it is important to be mindful of the district’s heat index guidelines while performing any outdoor work, activities and/or student practices.

1. If the heat index is 80-89: Athletes/Students participating in outdoor activities should be watched closely for any heat distress, and frequent water breaks should be taken.

2. If the heat index is 90- 94: Optional water breaks every 30 minutes for 10 minutes in duration. Ice down towels for cooling. Watch/monitor athletes carefully for any heat distress.

3. If the heat index is 95-99: Re-check temperature and humidity every 30 minutes to monitor for increased Heat Index. Mandatory water breaks every 30 minutes for 10 minutes in duration. Along with iced down towels, other means for cooling athletes should be available: water sprinklers, fans, shade etc...Watch/monitor athletes carefully for necessary action. Contact sports and activities with helmets and other possible equipment should be removed while not involved in contact. Athletic activities should be modified such that football players should practice in shorts, shoulder pads and helmets only.

4. If the heat index is 100-104: Re-check temperature and humidity every 30 minutes to monitor for increased Heat Index. Mandatory water breaks every 20 minutes for 10 minutes in duration. Along with iced down towels, other means for cooling athletes should be available: water sprinklers, fans, shade etc.... Alter uniform by removing items if possible or other modifications should be made, such as football practice in shorts, t-shirts and helmets only. Helmets and other possible equipment removed if not involved in contact or necessary for safety. Watch/monitor athletes carefully for necessary action. Reduce time of outside activity as well as indoor activity if air conditioning is unavailable. If necessary for safety, suspend activity.

5. If the heat index is in excess of 104 degrees: Activity will be suspended, postponed until later in the evening, or held indoors at the coach’s discretion. Stop all indoor activity unless air conditioning is available. Activity could also be rescheduled or postponed, when the heat index has reached an acceptable level. No activity may begin until conditions are acceptable, meaning the heat index is below 104. All appropriate guidelines should be followed based on the reading at the time.