WVSSAC-mandated device helps keep student-athletes cool

ST ALBANS, WV (WOWK)— Three years ago, the WVSSAC utilized money from a grant to buy every school a Wet Bulb Globe Thermometer, also called a Kestrel.

The Kestrel utilizes temperature, intensity of the sun, humidity, wind direction, and other factors to determine what the actual temperature in an area is.

With the installation of Kestrels at every school, the WVSSAC also enacted a temperature guideline system as well. These guidelines will explain any kind of modifications that need to be made based on the Kestrel reading.

Under 82 degrees, everything can run as planned.

However, as the temperature rises, things like limited practice time, protective gear restrictions and mandatory breaks are enacted.

Then if the reading is over 92 degrees, no outdoor activity can take place.

Kestrels are for all types of activity and will be used at every high school football game this season to help prevent heat-related illness.

For more on the WVSSAC’s heat illness policy click here .

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