by Alan B. Gibson

Yep, it’s hot outside, and coaches have to keep an eye on the weather

Temperatures continue to hang in the 90s, and the threat for next week, according to the forecasters, brings the possibility of triple digits showing up on thermometers.

As we approach the fall high school sports seasons, and with temperatures in the danger zone, coaches and staff have to keep a careful eye on the condition of their athletes, as well as the current temperatures.

In recent years, equipment to monitor the “heat index” is supplied to every coach in charge of teams involved in outdoor practice sessions, as well as games, and when the levels reach what is considered dangerous – then all activity is either altered, delayed or just plain cancelled.

For Clinton County High School, three fall season sports are currently in practice mode and are affected by the harsh temperatures – golf, soccer and football.

Of course the heat index is determined by combining the temperature with the current relative humidity, thus coming up with the heat index factor, and there are three levels of heat index numbers that cause the practice or even games to be altered until conditions get better.

According to the KHSAA regulations regarding the heat index and outdoor activities, the first degree of caution comes when the heat index reaches 96 degrees, a second and more severe level is reached at 100 degrees while the “stop” level comes in at a heat index of 105 degrees.

While a heat index level of 105 degrees may sound extremely severe, it can hit that level at a combination that might sound surprising to some. For instance, conditions that see temperatures only at 85 degrees may not sound as if it would be too harsh for young athletes to practice in. However, combine that 85 degree temperature with a relative humidity of 95 percent, and you have reached a heat index of 105 degrees.

Put someone in full dress football gear, or out in the sun and carrying a full set of golf clubs at the same time, and the situation can become extremely hazardous before you realize it.

Just something else our adult coaches have to keep an eye on – in addition to trying to teach the game, as they ready their teams for this upcoming fall season.

Still, I’ll take the heat over last February’s junk anytime.

Be careful, but get out now. It’ll be over before we know it.