DWFA Heat policy

 A primary objective of the Due West Football and Cheerleading Association (DWFA) is to provide as safe an environment as possible for our players, cheerleaders, coaches and fans. Consistent with that objective, the following HEAT GUIDELINES have been developed for immediate use. The Association will install and maintain a thermometer which shows the current air temperature at the field. The Association will also use a device to measure the heat index (i.e. heat and humidity) at all outdoor events which Due West hosts. At all times in hot weather, coaches will monitor athletes for heat distress.

 Parents are strongly urged throughout the day to insure that players are adequately hydrated before coming to practice by drinking water or sports drinks designed to replace electrolytes. Drinks containing caffeine are discouraged.

No DWFA Outdoor Activities will take place if the heat index is 105 or above. When the heat index reaches that level all activities are suspended for a minimum of 30 minutes and cannot resume until the heat index returns to a lower level.

If the heat index is 100-104, outdoor activities are limited to practice in cloth gear only (pants and T-shirts). Water breaks must be provided no less than every 15 minutes and players will be allowed to get water at any time. Frequent breaks should take place to allow the players to cool off. Coaches are encouraged to use cool towels to cool down players at least once per hour. Practices will be reduced to no more than ninety minutes in duration.

If the heat index is 95-99, practice in full gear will be allowed, with frequent water breaks no less than every 15 minutes and players will be allowed to get water at any time. Frequent breaks should take place to allow the players to cool off. Coaches are encouraged to use cool towels to cool down players at least once per hour. Practices will be reduced to no more than ninety minutes in duration.

If the heat index is 90-94, 5-10 minute rest breaks should be taken every hour, water breaks every 15 minutes, and players should be under careful supervision from coaches and trainers. Practices will be the regularly scheduled not to exceed 120 minutes.

If the heat index is 80-89, players will be watched closely by DWFA coaches for any heat distress and frequent water breaks will be taken.