Summer Football – Health and Safety

Summer football tournaments are usually an enjoyable way to spend a day – even if the team doesn’t get past the qualifying rounds!

However, even the most well run tournament will present some risks to the health and safety of players. It is important to make sure everyone is aware of these risks and takes sensible precautions.

One of the most significant risks (even on a cold day) is dehydration. Children need to bring plenty of drink (at least two liters of water or isotonic drink per person) and enough energy rich food to last the day.

Another potentially serious risk is sunburn. Players must put on sun block before they arrive and bring some more to apply during the day.

Take a gazebo or tent so that players can have somewhere to rest out of the sun (or rain).

If it comes to the worst and one of the players has been adversely affected by the sun, follow the advice below:

Sunburn
A healthy glow looks great in the summer but not when it’s strawberry-red. To treat moderate to severe sunburn move the affected person into the shade and cover them with a towel. Cool the skin by sponging the affected areas with cool water for at least 10 minutes and encourage them to take regular sips of cool water. For mild sunburn apply aftersun or calamine lotion to help soothe the affected area.

Heatstroke
Prolonged exposure to the sun or lack of fluids can cause your body to dangerously overheat. If someone is suffering from heatstroke they may have symptoms such as a rapid pulse, headache and dizziness. Their skin will be hot to the touch, red and flushed. As the condition worsens they will become disorientated and confused. It’s important to lower their body temperature as soon as possible.
To treat someone suffering from heatstroke remove as much of their clothing as possible and call an ambulance. Move them to a cool place and wrap them in a cold, wet sheet until their temperature falls. If a sheet isn’t available sponge them with cold water. Once their temperature returns to normal replace the sheet with a dry one and make a note of their pulse and breathing until help arrives.