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Heatstroke in the Marching Band Activity

publication date: Jun 19, 2009
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author/source: Chris Mader
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Summer rehearsals are often long and hot and if you aren't lucky enough to have access to a grass field, usually happen on asphalt which makes matters even worse.  The best way to avoid any health complications is to make sure to keep your marchers well hydrated with water (not soda!!).  Also try and schedule your outdoor marching rehearsals in the evenings or early morning to avoid the onslaught of the midday sun.  However, sometimes it is just plain hot out no matter what the time is and you should definitely keep an eye out for heat related health issues.

Heatstroke can be a very serious condition and as a director you should be aware of the first aid required to treat such a case.  Of course the best course of action is to have a parent that is a nurse or doctor present at those long, hot, summer rehearsals but if that is not available you should be aware of what to do if one of your students shows signs of heat stroke.

What makes heatstroke so bad, is the body's loss of control over the temperature regulating actions like sweating and internal temperature control.  This can cause a dangerous spike in body temperature (often over 104˚F) and the person will become disoriented and confused.

Other signs and symptoms may include:

  • Rapid heartbeat
  • Rapid and shallow breathing
  • Elevated or lowered blood pressure
  • Cessation of sweating
  • Irritability, confusion or unconsciousness
  • Feeling dizzy or lightheaded
  • Headache
  • Nausea
  • Fainting, which may be the first sign in older adults

If you suspect heatstroke:

  • Move the person out of the sun and into a shady or air-conditioned space.
  • Dial 911 or call for emergency medical assistance.
  • Cool the person by covering him or her with damp sheets or by spraying with cool water. Direct air onto the person with a fan or newspaper.
  • Have the person drink cool water, if he or she is able.

(Source: MayoClinic.com)


If a marcher succumbs to heatstroke, make sure they are checked out by a doctor immediately to avoid complications and encourage them to rest and drink plenty of fluids to rehydrate.  As a director, take the time to explain the importance of hydration both on and off the field to your students as this alone can make a world of difference in the health of your students over the course of the season.

Disclaimer: Dynamic Marching, LLC. and its article authors (Chris Mader) are not registered doctors.  The information presented here is gathered from outside sources (MayoClinic.com) and is in no way intended to diagnose or treat any medical conditions.  Always consult a medical doctor before taking any health related action.  The information here is intended to provide first aid steps and should never substitute for long term treatment of the medical condition described in this article.  Dynamic Marching, LLC. and its article authors (Chris Mader) are not liable for any injury, complication, or death resulting from following the content given in this article.


 


Consultant Image

Chris Mader is Vice-President and CFO of Dynamic Marching and frequently writes articles and teaches clinics on marching, movement, and visual instruction.  For a more complete bio please visit our consultants and clnicians page here.


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