IN THE GAME What Coaches Can Look for and Do to Protect Youth Athletes j Talk to your athletes. Ask thern how they're feeling. Encourage them to tell you how they're feeling. ] Require parents and caregivers to let you know if their child has: + Allergies or asthma + Medications + Any limitations on physical activity + Special medical considerations Watch for symptoms of poor air quality: + Coughing and sneezing + Eye, nose, or throat irritation + Chest tightness and shortness of breath + Fatigue and dizziness + Nausea + Skin irritation + Asthma attacks + Respiratory problems Stop the practice or game immediately and ensure athletes get proper medical care if they show symptoms of chemical or pesticide exposure: + Headaches and dizziness + Eye, nose, or throat irritation + Weakness + Nausea + Asthma attacks + Muscle twitching and tingling sensations ] Have children wash their hands after playing on athletic fields, especially before they eat. ] Look for signage indicating a pesticide application has taken place. Keep athletes away from areas that have recently been sprayed with pesticides. Indoors, keep athletes away from pest bait or traps. ] Discourage spectators from smoking at outdoor activities. ] Encourage parents and caregivers to turn off car engines while they're waiting to pick children up. I I Use the Air Quality Index (www.airnow.gov) to help plan outdoor practices and games. ] Request indoor practices or games be moved if the venue is undergoing indoor renovations or improvement projects. ] Request practices or games be moved if the playing field is near heavy vehicular traffic. Coaches are in a unique position to help ensure the health and safety of young athletes. Learn more at www2.epa.gov/children. &EPA ------- |