Hoop Fest Safety First

 Advice for a Secure and Wholesome Hoop fest!

Hoop fest is just around the corner! Whether you’re stepping onto the court, supporting from the sidelines, or helping ensure the weekend unfolds seamlessly as a volunteer, maintaining good health is crucial as we celebrate the start of summer—and the accompanying warmth! Here are a handful of sun safety recommendations to consider:

1. Keep Hydrated: Staying hydrated is one of the most effective strategies to tackle the heat and can enhance your performance. We suggest carrying a reusable water bottle that you can refill throughout the day and sip from as you transition between games or relax on the sidelines. Even if you don’t intend to be on the court working up a sweat, it’s essential to remain hydrated as you root for friends and family in the sun or spend your day helping out. Drinking water is vital for everyone during Hoop fest weekend!

2. Apply Sunscreen: We all cherish a sunny day, but the longer we spend outside, the more we’re subjected to the sun’s harmful UV rays. These can adversely affect your health and result in a painful sunburn... yikes! Ensure your skin is safeguarded by applying sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 15 every two hours.

3Find the Closest First-Aid Station: No one wants to contend with an injury during Hoop fest, but mishaps occur. If you or a teammate requires medical assistance, it’s crucial to know where to head! Once you locate your playing court, take a moment to identify the nearest first-aid station. Being aware of the options if your dunk or spin move doesn’t pan out, or if another player inadvertently injures you, can help you get the assistance you need promptly so you can return to the court.

4. Recognize the Symptoms of Heat-Related Illnesses: Are you aware of the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke? These are vital to recognize as we spend extended periods in the sun and can aid you in swiftly identifying and responding if you suspect someone may be experiencing a heat-related issue. Discover more about the signs and symptoms of heat-related ailments at: Symptoms of Heat-Related Illnesses | Extreme Heat | CDC.

Enjoy Hoop fest! The Spokane Regional Health District is here rooting for you as you prepare for the world’s largest 3-on-3 basketball tournament, and we wish everyone a safe and enjoyable weekend! For additional sun safety information, check out: Sun Safety Facts | Skin Cancer | CDC or SRHD’s Extreme Heat webpage.