By Dylan Barnes
County Sports Zone
As summer approaches, forecasts indicate the possibility of another severe wildfire season in Canada, raising concerns about air quality once again.
Factors such as high temperatures, dry conditions, and intense winds are expected to contribute to the risk of wildfires. Consequently, athletes and coaches are bracing for the potential recurrence of last year’s air quality issues. We must take last years’ experience and take precautionary measures this summer for athletes.
After interviewing Anne McGinty, coach at Friends School of Baltimore, she provided clarity that she along with the rest of the athletic staff and health staff, including the athletic trainer and nurse at the school, keep the athletic department up to speed on whether the air quality is safe or not for athletic teams to train or play matches. If not, coaches are to either cancel the team event or find an alternative way to train that does not put the school’s athletes at risk.
Considering these concerns, coaches and athletic organizations are taking proactive steps to safeguard athletes’ health. Here are some of the key measures being implemented:
Monitoring Air Quality: Coaches and athletic trainers are closely monitoring AQI levels using reliable sources like the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and local air quality monitoring stations. Real-time data helps in making informed decisions about whether to proceed with outdoor activities.
Adjusting Training Schedules: Training sessions are being scheduled during times when air quality is relatively better, such as early mornings or late evenings. On days with particularly poor air quality, outdoor activities are minimized or moved indoors if the indoor air quality is considered safe.
Indoor Training Facilities: Ensuring that indoor training facilities are equipped with proper air filtration systems to maintain a healthy indoor environment. This includes the use of High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters that can effectively remove pollutants from the air.
Limiting Exposure: Athletes are being recommended to limit their exposure to outdoor air during high pollution periods. This includes wearing masks designed to filter out fine particulates and avoiding unnecessary outdoor activities.
Health Screenings: Regular health screenings and monitoring of athletes for symptoms of respiratory distress are being conducted. Athletes with pre-existing respiratory conditions are given special attention and, if necessary, are provided with individualized training plans. Some universities already do this. For example, my university provides our team with Catapults and heart rate monitors to screen our work ethic and heart rate while at practice and during games.
Hydration and Nutrition: Emphasizing the importance of proper hydration and nutrition to help the body combat the effects of poor air quality. Antioxidant-rich diets can help reduce inflammation and support respiratory health. This can be done with basic information packets from coaches, trainers, or if possible, a nutritionist.
Educational Programs: Conducting educational programs to inform athletes about the risks associated with poor air quality and the best practices to mitigate these risks. Awareness and preparedness are key to ensuring athletes take the necessary precautions.
The experience of last year’s wildfires has underscored the vulnerability of athletes to environmental hazards like poor air quality. As we approach another summer with the potential for similar challenges, it is imperative that coaches, athletes and athletic organizations remain vigilant and proactive. By implementing comprehensive precautionary measures, they can help mitigate the health risks and ensure that athletes remain safe and healthy while pursuing their sports aspirations. The resilience and adaptability shown by the athletic community in the face of these challenges serve as a testament to their commitment to health and excellence.
This article was originally published on www.countysports.zone.
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