Just in time for a new school year, Orlando Health and Watson Clinic provided a heat safety education session for the faculty and staff of Polk County Schools. More than 150 athletic directors, coaches, and physical education teachers attended the program, which focused on recognizing and preventing heat-related illnesses among student athletes. Watson Clinic Urgent Care South specialist Dr. Jarett Gregory was a key speaker during the event.

Florida leads the nation in reported heat-related illnesses, with heat-related deaths rising over the past three years. Student athletes are especially vulnerable to Exertional Heat Illness (EHI) during early-season training. However, risks can be significantly reduced by following Wet-Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) guidelines, ensuring adequate hydration, scheduling frequent rest breaks, and incorporating proper recovery techniques like stretching, cold water immersion, nutrition, and sleep.

“Training in Florida’s extreme heat requires careful planning and real-time decision making,” shared Dr. Gregory. “Knowing how to modify workouts and recognize the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke can make a life-saving difference.”

Heat safety tips shared included:

• Signs of Heat Exhaustion: dizziness, irritability, nausea, fainting, and pale, clammy skin
• Signs of Heat Stroke: hot, red skin (often without sweating), confusion, seizures, and unconsciousness

Dr. Gregory emphasized the importance of immediate action when symptoms appear. For suspected heat exhaustion, move individuals to a cool location, encourage hydration and rest and monitor closely. If symptoms worsen or do not improve within an hour, seek medical attention. In cases of heat stroke, call 911 immediately.