Heat Safety in High School Athletics
Exertional heat illness is a serious concern in high school sports. Many safety rules and protocols are influenced by both national and state-level organizations. Understanding how these regulations are structured helps teams stay informed and proactive.
state level organizations
Every state in the US takes the guidance from the NFHS to set their own guidelines around heat illness prevention. Learn about your state's heat-related guidlines
Who Sets the Rules?
The National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) provides guidance through its Sports Medicine Advisory Committee (SMAC), offering best practices on student-athlete safety.
Each state then adapts these recommendations through its own athletic association, creating region-specific rules that schools must implement. This layered approach ensures that national insights are tailored to local conditions, helping teams take more effective precautions.
heat illness prevention statement
Heat Acclimatization and Heat Illness Prevention Position Statement - April 2022
The Heat Acclimatization and Heat Illness Prevention Statement (April 2022) offers core recommendations for state associations. Key principles include:
- Begin physical activity gradually over 1–2 weeks to allow safe adaptation to heat.
- Account for each athlete’s conditioning, medical history, and readiness.
- Modify activity intensity, uniforms, and rest breaks based on weather conditions.
- Encourage athletes to begin activity well hydrated; use simple tools like urine color checks.
- Spot signs of overheating early (e.g., dizziness, fatigue) and respond promptly.
- Know how to cool the body rapidly using water immersion or ice packs before transport.
- Every team should have a practiced, written emergency protocol in place.
Hydration and heat risk statement
As outlined in the Hydration and Heat Risk Position Statement (April 2022):
Even mild dehydration (1–2% body weight) can impact performance and increase heat risk.
Hydration needs vary by individual and depend on:
- Sweat rate and salt loss
- Environmental heat and humidity
- Acclimatization level
other resources
- National Athletic Trainers Association (NATA) - Heat Illness Handout
- OSHA - Heat Illness Prevention Site
- Korey Stringer Institute - Pillars to Prevent Heat Stroke
Note: This page is for educational purposes only and is not intended to provide medical or regulatory advice. Always consult your local school, state athletic association, or certified medical professional for specific rules and safety procedures.