Staying hydrated is key as high school teams return to practice

PRINCETON, WV (WVNS) — With practices for fall sports and several other outdoor activities starting up, it is time to talk hydration.

Summer is still in full swing and that means heat and humidity.

High temperatures and humidity combined with days without a breeze can create harsh conditions for students outside practicing for football, marching band, or other teams.

Paul Seamann, Director of Operations for Jan-Care Ambulance Service, said everyone has to take care.

“Sometimes there’s a perfect storm of very intense sunlight along with the ability of high humidity and in those cases, you know, students, coaches, everyone has to take particular concern in getting frequent breaks. Make sure everyone stays really hydrated,” said Seamann.

Seamann said there should also be places for students to go and get out of the sunlight safely as well.

Signs of heat exhaustion to look out for are headache, confusion, muscle cramps, and profuse sweating.

Seamann said depending on the conditions outside, water and shade breaks should be given every 15 to 20 minutes.

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