Climate scientists are predicting that 2026 will be another summer of above-normal temperatures and potential “heat dome” conditions. Periods of extreme heat can cause heat exhaustion and heat stroke, especially in young children, athletes, older adults, people with chronic medical conditions, and outdoor workers. People of all ages are at high risk if they take medications that interfere with how their body regulates temperature.
City and school officials, parents and teachers may find some of the expert guidelines and recommendations for a comprehensive safety and emergency action plan for preventing heat stress, illness, and death useful.
- “Parents’ and Coaches’ Guide to Dehydration and Other Heat Illnesses in Children,” National Athletic Trainers Association.
- The Sports Medicine Committee of the Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association (MIAA) has a heat modification policy for student athletes. The guidelines include recommendations for monitoring conditions and adjusting activities. The MIAA recommends using Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) trackers and implementing mandatory hydration breaks.
- In June,2024, the Massachusetts Bureau of Climate and Environmental Health issued an advisory for recreational camp and municipal programs that offer outdoor activities which involve strenuous physical exercise during extreme heat and humidity.
- Massachusetts Extreme Heat Resource Guide