District warns athletes, staff
to take precautions in heat
ENGLISHTOWN — Whether or not the hot summer weather will soon come to an end, Freehold Regional High School District administrators are taking precautionary steps to keep student-athletes safe in the face of high temperatures and humidity.
District administrators said by providing staff members in all six schools with mandatory heat illness and fluid replacement guidelines, administrators are moving to keep all athletes healthy, active and in top shape.
In a memorandum written by Dr. Patricia Emmerman, assistant superintendent for special services, a set of guidelines addressing the topics of fluid replacement and heat illness has been sent to all supervisors of extracurricular activities, school nurses, coaches and athletic trainers.
The guidelines, which were formulated by Dr. Brian Halpern of Marlboro, will be posted for students to see and read, and coaches will be responsible for ensuring compliance.
Recommendations for fluid replacement during practice and competitions include: drinking adequate amounts of water during events that are less than an hour in length. For events, matches or competitions that are longer than an hour, drinks with electrolytes and between 6 to 9 percent carbohydrates are suggested. The carbohydrates maintain blood sugar and decrease fatigue.
The guidelines also include the amount of fluid to be consumed before, during and after the activities.
Other suggestions include warming up in the shade; wearing loose fitting clothing; wearing clothing made from cotton-blend materials; wearing minimal clothing; limiting workouts and practices in hot and humid weather; and checking urine for a lighter color which indicates that the body is well hydrated.
Warning signals are given for potential dehydration and decreased performance.
Suggestions are also offered which include: adequate rest periods, changing clothing that has become sweat-soaked, and drinking adequate liquids as a response to the dangers.
Additionally, athletes are advised to avoid caffeine, alcoholic beverages, salt tablets and carbonated drinks.

