GSABA HOT WEATHER GUIDELINES

The GSABA HOT WEATHER POLICY has adopted the following guidelines regarding the playing of basketball in hot weather conditions, which relates in particular to players and officials.

Irrespective of the predicted maximum temperature, umpire in charges, coaches, team managers and referees should adopt the following as appropriate, in cases of hot weather:

Umpire in Charges should:

Take steps to maximise the airflow and reduce heat build up in the stadium.

Make an assessment of playing conditions and advise referees and coaches.

Cancel or postpone games if playing conditions are considered unsafe.

Coaches should:

Ascertain whether any players have known medical conditions which may be affected by heat.

Ensure that players take adequate fluid during the game.

Be alert and react to any signs of distress/potential distress in players.

Make substitutions as appropriate.

Utilise available time-outs.

Referees should:

Call additional time-outs.

Extend the breaks between quarters.

Coaches/Team Managers should:

Ensure that players take adequate fluid before, during and after the game.

Be alert and react to any signs of distress/potential distress in players.

Ascertain whether players have medical conditions which may be affected by weather conditions.

No-one should ever feel as though they must play if they believe it is unsafe or they are feeling distressed.