SALL Heat Safety Policy
Purpose
Santa Anita Little League is committed to protecting the health and safety of all players, coaches, volunteers, and spectators. Extreme heat can pose serious health risks, including heat exhaustion and heat stroke. While Little League does provide heat guidelines as part of their Safety Plan, Santa Anita Little League has opted to create this policy which enforces stricter guidelines at lower heat thresholds. This policy establishes clear guidelines for cancelling or modifying games and practices during periods of excessive heat.
Policy
1. Temperature Threshold
• All practices and games will be cancelled when the temperature reaches 98°F or higher according to AccuWeather for Arcadia, California.
• The League will use AccuWeather’s reported real-time temperature at the scheduled start time of the event to make determinations.
2. Heat Monitoring
• The League Safety Officer or a designated Board Member will monitor AccuWeather throughout the day.
• Decisions will be communicated to managers, coaches, and families no later than two hours before the scheduled start time.
3. Hydration & Safety Guidelines (for temperatures between 95°F - 98°F)
• Encourage frequent water breaks every 15–20 minutes.
• Players may not be denied access to water or shade at any time.
• Coaches should watch for signs of heat-related illness (e.g., dizziness, nausea, excessive fatigue, confusion).
• Parents are encouraged to provide cooling towels, hats, sunscreen, and plenty of water.
4. Exceptions & Rescheduling
• Games and practices cancelled due to excessive heat will be rescheduled at the discretion of the League Scheduler, subject to field availability.
• If a game may be delayed without impacting a later game, that option can be utilized.
• No team or player will be penalized for cancellations related to this policy.
5. Enforcement
• All managers and coaches are responsible for enforcing this policy at every game and practice.
• Any violations should be reported to the League President or Safety Officer immediately.
Effective Date
This policy is effective immediately and will remain in force for the duration of the Santa Anita Little League fall season.