Two years ago, George LaComb noticed significant safety measures at his new Orlando high school, contrasting with his previous less affluent school. His new school had a recovery room, an athletic trainer, and large ice baths for overheated athletes, unlike his old school, which depended on a makeshift ice bath. “There’s a vast difference between schools that have money and schools that don’t,” said LaComb, a representative on the National Student Council.
Amid rising temperatures due to climate change, schools face challenges ensuring student safety on sports fields and playgrounds. Annually, over 9,000 high school athletes undergo treatment for heat illnesses, with nine student deaths from exertional heat stroke reported in 2021. At least 65 teens have died from heat-related causes since 2000, according to a USA Today analysis.
Currently, the U.S. lacks a national standard for heat safety in schools, though federal regulators are working on a workplace rule that might extend to schools. Meanwhile, states are creating their own rules, requiring schools to adjust practice schedules and invest in equipment. John Balbus noted, “The lack of funding and capacity in many places around the country will almost certainly lead to a continuation of the Swiss cheese heat health protections.”
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Exertional heat stroke remains a leading cause of death in high school sports, with cases rising over the last four decades. In July 2022, a Mississippi high school’s band practice ended with 11 students hospitalized. Similarly, heatstroke claimed lives in Memphis and North Texas. Children are particularly vulnerable to extreme heat as their bodies acclimate slower and produce less sweat.
The Korey Stringer Institute evaluates state policies on athlete safety. Florida and Georgia, having experienced recent heat-related deaths, have comprehensive regulations, including mandatory acclimation periods and wet-bulb thermometers for heat stress measurement. Six states, including New Jersey and North Carolina, require cold water immersion tubs at all warm weather practices.
Conversely, Colorado and Maine rank low in KSI’s evaluation, lacking formal heat protections. However, California has recently passed new mandates. President Biden’s administration is advancing federal regulations to protect workers, including school staff. These would require heat hazard plans and access to cool water and shade.
New Hampshire, previously at the bottom of KSI’s list, now has strong heat safety policies. Schools must have emergency plans and use wet-bulb globe temperature readings to manage outdoor activities. Despite state mandates, many schools lack the funds to fully comply, needing grants to afford required equipment like wet-bulb devices.
In Massachusetts, Boston schools, unable to afford full-time staff, partnered with a hospital for athletic trainers. A dermatology group offers shade grants, and California has a statewide initiative for shaded green spaces.
Students like Isabella Malloy, a senior at Vista PEAK Preparatory in Colorado, are urged to self-advocate for their safety. George LaComb noted that despite amenities, his school’s strict safety measures, like wet-bulb readings, often limit practice time. “It really impacts the joy that you have in the sport,” LaComb said.
Related: Extreme heat delays school start dates in some districts
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