Around this time of the year in August, we are all used to some intense heat here in Indiana. This week though, temperatures have spiked to extreme highs. We’ve seen 90 degree temperatures with a 105-110 degree heat index. These extreme temperatures can lead to many issues and can even be dangerous for us students, as we may even be participating in fall sports where we could be at risk. However, there are ways to avoid these issues. I interviewed Matt Engelbrecht, who is the Chief Meteorologist at WNDU studios here in South Bend. He shared the facts, dangers, and solutions to this week’s extreme weather.
So what can we do to avoid problems from the heat as we participate in sports and other extracurricular activities? Engelbrecht says,”the issues really start to creep in when you are dehydrated, if you are not prepared for the heat. The first thing we recommend is being aware that it is going to be hot. This isn’t normal summertime heat. This is extreme heat. This heat index means that your body is working overtime to keep itself at a certain temperature. The only way it can do that is by using the water you have consumed to try and keep yourself cool.”
Those are great tips, but what can you do if you find yourself in a dangerous situation heat-wise? Englebrecht stated,”The first thing you have to do is know the signs. The first one being that you stop sweating. Most people think that you’re done sweating and your body temperature is fine. That is kind of the first sign that they might be getting heat stroke. The first thing you need to do is find some shade. You want to get water, and you want to get them help. Call the right people to take care of them if they are in danger.”
I decided to talk to one of our very own teachers and coaches here at Saint Joe, Mr. Carrier, to find out how coaches are keeping student-athletes safe in the heat. Mr. Carrier coaches the football defensive line, as well as the JV team, and is also the football Operations Director. I asked Coach how they were altering practice this week due to the extreme heat. Carrier stated, ”We have delayed our start of practice until later this evening until 7:00pm in an effort to get out of the main heat of the day. We are also providing cups to drink water before and after practice and having our normal ice water available during practice.”
As many of you already know, the first home football game of the season is on Friday. So what precautionary measures are coaches taking on and off the field? Coach Carrier says, “As we work and condition in order to perform our best, we are very careful to make sure the amount of work is appropriate for the temperature conditions. Last week, we allowed helmets off more often to allow for a cooling effect and to take a little extra break to drink the water. Doing a little bit more instructional time versus hard athletic activity time, so that we are mentally prepared even when the physical preparation isn’t possible in this heat.”
Remember the dangers, the warning signs, and how you can keep yourself and others safe during this sudden heat wave. Stay safe, Saint Joe!
