Heat Acclimatization Guidelines

Details

Created on Thursday, 26 July 2012 15:54

Dr. Michael J. Martirano, Superintendent of Schools, 301-475-5511, ext. 178
Ms. Linda J. Dudderar, Assistant Superintendent of Instruction, 301-475-5511, ext. 108

LEONARDTOWN, MD – The Southern Maryland Athletic Conference has developed Preseason-Practice Heat Acclimatization Guidelines for those associated with the tri-county Interscholastic Athletics Program. The guidelines are in accordance with the model policy developed by the Maryland State Department of Education in June 2012.

The guidelines recognize the importance of educating participants regarding exertional heat illnesses, and the need to gradually acclimatize athletes to the heat and humidity typically experienced during late summer/early fall in Southern Maryland. Particular attention is paid to the importance of personal hydration; the amount of time spent practicing each day; and the gradual introduction of sport-specific equipment and physical contact, both of which elevate body temperatures.

The guidelines address a fourteen-day heat acclimatization period that starts with the first day of tryouts on August 11, 2012. During the first five days, teams are limited to a single practice, not to exceed three hours total, inclusive of warm-up and cool down. A one-hour walk-through is permitted later in the day once a three-hour recovery period has elapsed.

Starting on day six, total practice and walk-through time per day is limited to five hours, with no single session exceeding three hours. If a team elects to have two practices on one day, the following day must be a single practice day or a rest day (e.g., a day off, such as a Sunday).

Full details of the Guidelines along with other Health and Safety information may be found at http://www.smcps.org/tlpd/tl/athletics/health-and-safety.