Heat Illness Awareness & Practice Protocol
The MPS Heat Index is determined by adding the temperature to the relative humidity. For example, if the temperature is 105 degrees and the humidity is 35%, the total number is 140 (Danger Zone). When it is raining, the heat index may be modified at the discretion of the coach and athletic trainer.
Heat Index Levels
| Under 135 | Below Danger Zone | Practice as normally conducted. Water available and breaks given. |
| 136-145 | Danger Zone | Practice with modifications. Modifications may include: reduced amount of equipment worn, adjusted practice time, reduced running schedule, water available and more frequent breaks given, increased supervision by Athletic Training Staff and Coaches. |
| Above 146 | Critical Zone | Practice modified, postponed, or cancelled. Modifications may include: no equipment worn or no running schedule, water available and breaks given every 10-15 minutes or as needed, practice moved indoors, practice postponed until reading is no longer in the critical zone, increased supervision by Athletic Training Staff and Coaches. |
Practice Suggestions
- Have water available and encourage athletes to bring their own.
- Encourage athletes to hydrate PRIOR to practice. Athletes should consume 17-20 fl. oz. of water or sports drink 2-3 hours before exercise and 7-10 fl. oz. of water or a sports drink 10-20 minutes before exercise.
- Schedule water breaks into the practice plan. Be aware of situations where athletes may need more water breaks based on intensity level and climate conditions.
- Encourage athletes to hydrate AFTER practice with water or a sports drink. Energy drinks and soda are not recommended for use in hydrating the body.