GREEN BAY, WI (WTAQ) – With the forecast over the next few days calling for temperatures reaching into the 90s, the Packers and Bellin Health are taking extra measures to ensure that participants in the 1K Kids Run, presented by Edvest, and Packers 5K, presented by Bellin Health, are safe from the heat.
A heat safety plan has been put in place for this weekends runs.
With temperatures expected to be in 90’s or above, the race is going on, but not without some safety measures.
Roland Schmidt, a licensed athletic trainer with Bellin Health, says runners need to take it easy.
“It is an opportunity to enjoy the event and Lambeau Field and really have a good time.”
He says that means it is not the best day to try to set any time records.
“We don’t want this to become your attempt at a PR especially with the heat that we are expecting this weekend.”
Along with staying hydrated and wearing cool clothing, it is important for participants to listen to their bodies, but with one race being for children, parents and adults have a big responsibility.
“They cannot feel that their body is getting warm or that they are getting overheated, so they will just continue to push their body.”
A color code system is in place to explain the current conditions. Signs with the current course conditions will be posted at the start line and at each water station along the course. The system indicates conditions as follows:
Green is a low-level alert meaning conditions are good, but participants should stay alert for changes.
· Yellow is a moderate alert level indicating less than ideal, but not dangerous, conditions. Runners/walkers should dress appropriately, adjust their pace and be prepared for changing conditions.
· Red is high alert, meaning potentially dangerous conditions exist. Participants are asked to adjust their pace, observe any course changes and proceed with caution or consider stopping.
· Black is an extreme alert that will only be issued if conditions are dangerous and the event is canceled. If that happens, the timing mats will be turned off and no results will be reported after that point. Everyone will be asked to stop running and then walk to the nearest aid station.
He says at any time, the race can be canceled for safety reasons.
Misting fans will be added at the start and finish of the 1K Kids Run, and additional ice and water will be available for all participants at each race. Medical professionals and staff will be stationed at the medical tent and will be available to assist.
Other tips include:
Arrive hydrated and consume plenty of fluids during the race. Water and Gatorade will be available at the start line of each race, at each mile along the 5K route and at the finish line of each race
Wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing, preferably something that wicks moisture.
Participants should pay attention to how they feel. If anyone feels lightheaded, can’t catch their breath or if something else doesn’t feel right, they should stop or slow down and seek help from any volunteer, medical personnel or the police.
Turn down personal listening devices to increase awareness of breathing and instructions from public safety officers and course officials.
