As football season gets fully underway, Alabamians of all ages are making plans to attend games at all levels of play. Don’t let a joyous day on the field, at the stadium, gym, or other sports venue turn into a troublesome or even tragic one. By properly preparing and minimizing risks, fans can both enjoy the exhilaration of the competition and a safe return home, regardless of the game’s outcome, win or lose.
Football is clearly the dominant and most popular sport in Alabama. Fall is the season when families, cheerleaders, marching band members, school faculty and staff, and other sports enthusiasts are hitting the roads to watch the game. Young athletes are also traveling to compete in a host of other sports: flag football, soccer, volleyball, baseball, softball, cross country, lacrosse, swimming, diving, gymnastics, tennis, and golf. Most parents of young competitors are concerned about their children’s risk of injury, but sports spectators can also suffer health emergencies. Below are some suggestions.
- Before leaving home by motor vehicle, keep safety in mind --- give yourself plenty of time, buckle up, abide by speed limits, practice defensive driving, and exercise patience, including in parking areas. When tailgating, bring nutritious food and snacks and keep cold foods cold and hot foods hot. Avoid or limit alcohol consumption; alcoholic beverages impair coordination and judgment. Pack some hand wipes and bring multiple water bottles to stay hydrated before, during, and after the game.
- On game days, pay attention to the weather forecast. Extreme heat and humidity in September increase the risk of heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion, heat cramps, and heatstroke. For day games, painful sunburns can also result, so wear sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and comfortable clothing. It’s wise to wear sturdy shoes and bring a poncho and layers of clothing for nighttime competitions.
- The excitement and stress associated with the game atmosphere can raise a passionate fan’s blood pressure to unsafe levels, which can lead to a heart attack or stroke in people with pre-existing conditions. Seek medical attention for symptoms such as chest pain, dizziness, or shortness of breath.
- Pay attention to your surroundings. Injuries often occur because of slips, trips, and falls; in fact, dozens of people have experienced significant falls at stadiums. Team rivalries are strong, so pay attention to other spectators’ behaviors. Avoid criticizing players, coaches, and officials from the sidelines, and be sure to model positive and respectful behavior for your children and other attendees. Aggressive and rowdy fans have been known to injure others in overcrowded locations.
Don’t fumble. For a healthy and enjoyable experience, be mindful of potential health hazards associated with attending sporting events this fall.
Scott Harris, M.D., M.P.H.
State Health Officer
