Health and Safety for Humble ISD High School Preseason Football Workouts are essential as parents, family, and friends gather to watch our teams win! Parents of high school football players at Kingwood High School, Atascocita High School, or Summer Creek High School, there’s nothing quite like the excitement and pride that comes with watching your athlete gear up for the new season. But along with the anticipation of Friday night lights comes the responsibility of ensuring your teen’s safety, especially during the intense summer workouts in the sweltering August heat. Here in the local Humble, Atascocita, and Kingwood areas where temperatures often soar above normal averages, it’s crucial to take proactive steps to manage the risks associated with high school football conditioning.
The Heat of August: A Reality Check
Elite Hospital Kingwood takes health and safety seriously during the hottest months of summer. According to the Weather Channel, August temperatures in our area can be particularly unforgiving. With average highs frequently exceeding what many consider comfortable, the potential for heat-related illnesses becomes a serious concern. As a parent, it’s essential to understand the risks and know how to mitigate them to keep your young athlete safe and healthy.
The Importance of Hydration
Hydration is the cornerstone of preventing heat-related illnesses. During intense physical activity, especially in high temperatures, the body loses significant amounts of fluids through sweat. Encourage your child to start hydrating well before the workout begins. Drinking water throughout the day, not just during practice, helps maintain optimal hydration levels.
Equip your child with a large, reusable water bottle and set reminders for them to drink at regular intervals. While water is the best option, electrolyte drinks can also be beneficial to replenish lost minerals like sodium and potassium, particularly after long or strenuous sessions.
Nutrition: Fueling the Athlete
Proper nutrition plays a vital role in an athlete’s performance and recovery. Ensure your child eats a balanced diet rich in carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats. Carbohydrates provide the necessary energy for rigorous workouts, while proteins aid in muscle recovery and growth. Incorporate plenty of fruits and vegetables to supply essential vitamins and minerals.
Avoid heavy, greasy foods that can cause sluggishness and discomfort. A Micky D’s Double Quarter Pounder and large fries and a shake will be nutritional overkill and tons of empty calories. Instead, opt for light, easily digestible meals, especially before workouts. A good pre-practice snack might include a banana with peanut butter or a small bowl of oatmeal.
Sun Safety: Protecting Against Overexposure
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, The sun’s rays are strongest during peak hours, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If practices fall within this time frame, sun protection is non-negotiable. Equip your child with a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Make sure they apply it generously 30 minutes before heading outside and reapply every two hours or more often if sweating heavily.
Additionally, wearing light-colored, moisture-wicking clothing can help reflect sunlight and keep the body cooler. UV-blocking sunglasses or shields will protect eyes from harmful UV rays.
Recognizing Heat-Related Illnesses
Heat-related illnesses can escalate quickly and become life-threatening if not addressed promptly. As a parent, it’s crucial to recognize the signs and symptoms of conditions like heat exhaustion and heatstroke.
Heat Exhaustion Symptoms:
- Heavy sweating
- Weakness or fatigue
- Dizziness or fainting
- Muscle cramps
- Nausea or vomiting
- Headache
If your child exhibits these symptoms, move them to a cooler location, encourage them to drink water, and apply cool, wet cloths to their skin. If symptoms persist or worsen, seek medical attention immediately.
Heatstroke Symptoms:
- High body temperature (104°F or higher)
- Hot, red, dry, or damp skin
- Rapid and strong pulse
- Confusion
- Loss of consciousness
Heatstroke is a medical emergency. Call 911 and take immediate action to cool the person while waiting for professional help. Move them to a cooler place, apply cool cloth, and offer water if they are conscious and able to drink. (Mayo Clinic)
Elite Hospital Kingwood: Your Partner in Health and Safety
At Elite Hospital Kingwood, we understand the pressures and concerns of being the parent of an athlete. Our team of board-certified emergency Physicians is here to provide expert care should any health concerns arise during the football season. We are committed to helping you keep your teen safe and healthy, ensuring they can perform their best on the field.
With Health and Safety it is crucial that preparation is key to managing the summer heat during high school football workouts. By prioritizing hydration, nutrition, sun safety, and being vigilant for signs of heat-related illnesses, you can help your child navigate the challenges of training in the August heat. And know that Elite Hospital Kingwood is always here to support you with top-notch emergency care when you need it most. More importantly, we are in-network for Humble ISD employees.
Works Cited
“Monthly Weather Forecast for Humble, TX.” The Weather Channel, weather.com/weather/monthly/l/da55dad7501a409dbb23e52975632d5e3bd004ee3767290eb3847cfbd71b9e52.
EPA, Environmental Protection Agency, www.epa.gov/radtown/ultraviolet-uv-radiation-and-sun-exposure.
“Heat Exhaustion.” Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 6 Apr. 2023, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/heat-exhaustion/symptoms-causes/syc-20373250#:~:text=Heat%20exhaustion%20is%20a%20condition,heatstroke%20being%20the%20most%20serious.