August is Sun Safety Month. As summer sports continue to heat up, so does the risk of sunburn, heat stroke, and dehydration. For your athletes, especially those spending hours training and competing outdoors, understanding sun safety isn't just a health precaution—it's a game-changer. The following are some tips to keep in mind as the heat hits its peak.
- Know the Signs: Some symptoms of heat exhaustion include dizziness, nausea, vomiting, extreme sweating, and a rapid heartbeat. When athletes experience any of these, it’s advised for them to take a break away from the sun to cool off and prioritize rest. Rubbermaid Cool Down Tubs and the Polar Life Pods are both reliable options for instant and effective heat relief.
- Hydration is Key: According to the American Heart Association, every pound of sweat you lose, is equal to a pint of water than needs to be replenished. Encouraging your athletes to drink water before, during, and after exercise (even if they are not thirsty), can make all the difference in preventing dehydration. Our selection of hydration must-haves include Gatorade High School Performance Packages, InFlow Generation 2, and more.
- UV Protection: Keeping your athletic training room stocked with sunscreen at all times is also beneficial. When outdoor athletes regularly apply sunscreen, it allows them to stay active and focused without the discomfort and dangers of sun exposure. Our Coppertone Sport Sunscreen retains SPF after 80 minutes of activity in the water or sweating!
- Timing is Crucial: The hottest outdoor hours are known to be between noon and 3pm. Taking extra precautions for your athletes is extremely important during this time frame. The Kestrel 5400 Heat Stress Tracker is your all-in-one solution for measuring heat stress index and humidity, ensuring your athletes are performing in safe environmental conditions.
Throughout Sun Safety Month and beyond, you can count on School Health for everything athlete safety and health. As your one-stop partner for Sports Medicine, we’ve got you covered.