Roswell, Georgia, July 31, 2025
News Summary
As the football season approaches, Roswell, Georgia implements new protective measures for student-athletes. Safety protocols including the Perry Weather System, hydration emphasis, and on-site ice baths have been integrated. With concerns over extreme heat and its impact on athlete health, these initiatives aim to prevent heat stress and enhance overall safety. Fulton County Schools has invested significantly in equipment and resources, leading to recognition for their commitment to student-athlete welfare.
Roswell, Georgia is taking significant steps to ensure the safety of student-athletes ahead of the approaching football season. With new measures and equipment in place, the state aims to protect its young athletes more effectively, particularly from the risks associated with extreme heat.
Coaches at Centennial Knights High School in Roswell have highlighted the importance of hydration during practice sessions, reinforcing guidelines to help players avoid heat stress. Georgia has historically faced challenges in this area, having one of the highest rates of heat-related fatalities among high school football players in the U.S. However, recent enhancements in safety protocols, driven by research from the University of Georgia, have led to comprehensive changes in collaboration with the state’s high school athletic association.
As a result of these efforts, Georgia has now been recognized as the leader in student-athlete safety nationwide by the Korey Stringer Institute. Lamarr Glenn, the Athletic Director for Fulton County Schools, elaborated on ongoing initiatives to prioritize student well-being during athletic activities.
All high schools within the Fulton County district are now equipped with the Perry Weather System, a proactive technology that monitors lightning strikes and assesses heat with the wet-bulb globe temperature (WBGT) – a more reliable measure of heat stress than the conventional heat index. This system delivers real-time data and notifications to athletic staff, allowing for immediate action to protect student-athletes from unsafe conditions.
Fulton County Schools allocates approximately $47,000 annually to maintain equipment designed to track weather conditions, which cost about $14,000 to install across 19 district high schools. Safety measures are further enhanced with the provision of on-site ice baths for rapid cooling, as well as the use of guardian caps on helmets to minimize impact force in the event of collisions. Coaches are steadfast in reminding athletes of the critical need for adequate hydration throughout practices.
Beyond physical safety, there are ongoing efforts to widen on-site medical staff and resources dedicated to cardiac and mental health support, contributing to a comprehensive approach to student-athlete safety. Moreover, two local institutions, Morehouse College and Clark Atlanta University, recently received state-of-the-art helmets through a grant from the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation and the Atlanta Falcons. This investment aims to enhance player health and safety in preparation for their upcoming 2025 football season.
Helmet technology has seen significant improvements in the last five years, aligning with the growing focus on athlete safety. The athletic directors of Morehouse College and the head coach of Clark Atlanta University have expressed appreciation for this investment in player health and safety.
As extreme heat increasingly affects athletic practices nationwide, strategic measures have been implemented to keep young athletes safe during high temperatures. For example, practices at Benjamin Mays High School are now being held earlier in the morning to prevent exposure to dangerous heat conditions. Schools assess WBGT levels every 30 minutes to effectively gauge heat stress.
Concerns regarding extreme heat are valid, as they have been linked to a 117% increase in heat-related deaths since 1999. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises individuals to stay hydrated, seek shade, and take regular breaks when faced with extreme heat, particularly for those with pre-existing health conditions. In light of these alarming statistics, the measures being adopted across Georgia are timely, aiming to safeguard the future of young athletes as they hit the field.
FAQ
What measures is Georgia implementing to enhance student-athlete safety?
Georgia is integrating new safety protocols, including the Perry Weather System, hydration reminders, on-site ice baths, and guardian caps for helmets.
What is the Perry Weather System?
The Perry Weather System is a technology that monitors lightning strikes and heat stress using the wet-bulb globe temperature, providing real-time data to athletic staff.
How much does Fulton County Schools spend on safety equipment?
Fulton County Schools spends approximately $47,000 annually to maintain weather tracking equipment, with an initial installation cost of $14,000 for 19 high schools.
Why is hydration important for student-athletes during practices?
Hydration is essential for preventing heat-related illnesses, which can pose significant risks during intense physical activities, especially in extreme heat.
How have extreme heat conditions affected football practices?
Extreme heat has led to a significant increase in heat-related deaths among athletes, prompting schools to shift practice schedules and adopt regular monitoring of heat stress levels.
Key Features of Safety Measures in Georgia Schools
| Feature | Description | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Perry Weather System | Monitors lightning and temperature conditions in real-time. | Ensures immediate response to unsafe weather conditions. |
| Hydration Protocols | Coaches emphasize the need for hydration during practices. | Prevents heat-related illnesses. |
| On-Site Ice Baths | Available to quickly cool down overheating athletes. | Reduces risk of heat stress and related emergencies. |
| Guardian Caps | Innovative helmets designed to absorb impact. | Minimizes head injuries during play. |
| Expanded Medical Support | Increasing on-site medical resources for cardiac and mental health. | Addresses overall well-being of student-athletes. |
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