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Heat Exposure Special Olympics' practices, competitions, and activities are often conducted outdoors. The following suggestions provide some basic safety procedures to help keep everyone safe and cool. Heat problems often occur when athletes play too long and hard, and stay in the sun too long. Because sunlight reflects off shiny surfaces, being around water can increase exposure. Sunburn can occur on overcast days as well as sunny days. When athletes are in the sun, they need to wear a water-resistant sunscreen lotion which provides maximum protection. Sunglasses and a hat provide added protection.   Following the simple risk management techniques outlined below can help prevent heat stroke injuries and illnesses. Provide consistent breaks and rest periods for all athletes and coaches. Make available shade/fans/cooling systems, if possible. During periods when athletes are not training or competing but are waiting on the sidelines, they should not sit or stand in the sunshine or sit in cars without air conditioning for extended periods of time. Keep a fresh supply of drinking water at all outdoor practices and competitions. Have access to medical personnel on-site, if possible. Promote the use of sunscreen and have it available. Ensure that athletes are wearing cotton clothing that is loose fitting and light colored and hats if possible. Consider the Heat Index — temperature and humidity combined. Suspend competition or practice if heat conditions become overly harsh, or if several athletes show any symptoms listed below. Avoid activities during the hottest time of the day, usually early and mid afternoon — 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.   Symptoms of Overheating and Dehydration Anyone experiencing the symptoms below needs to seek medical attention immediately: Increased thirst Headache Dry mouth and swollen tongue Weakness Dizziness Confusion Sluggishness Vomiting Inability to sweat To increase the fluid intake of an athlete who has become dehydrated or is beginning to show any of the above symptoms, have the athlete try the following methods. Sip small amounts of water. Drinking too much water too fast is not effective and may even be harmful. Drink carbohydrate, electrolyte-containing drinks (e.g., PowerAde or Pedialyte). Carbonated soft drinks or drinks with caffeine should not be consumed. Hold in the mouth Popsicles made from juices or sports drinks. Hold ice chips in the mouth. Sip through a straw. Place a cool water-soaked towel around the back of the neck.   Heat Stroke Signs and symptoms include hot, red skin; very high body temperature; shock; or unconsciousness   What to Do Treat heat stroke as a life threatening emergency, and call the paramedics. Cool the victim by immersing him/her in a cool bath or wrapping in wet sheets and fanning. Care for shock by laying the athlete down and elevating the feet. Give nothing by mouth.     Heat Exhaustion Signs and symptoms include cool, pale, moist skin; rapid, weak pulse; weakness/dizziness; nausea/vomiting   What to Do Treat heat exhaustion as an emergency, and call the paramedics. Get the athlete into the coolest place available. Place the athlete on his/her back with feet elevated. Cool athlete by applying wet sheets or towels to the body and by fanning. Give half a glass of water to drink every 15 minutes for an hour.     Heat Cramps Signs and symptoms include muscular pains and spasms, usually in the legs or abdomen.   What to Do Get the athlete into the coolest place available. Give half a glass of water to drink every 15 minutes for an hour.   Prevention Seek protection from the sun and extreme heat. Replace fluids by drinking water, sports drink or fruit juices.

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