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

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