Reminder to All Bowlers
By Joan Brotherton
As we will no doubt be experiencing various weather conditions over the following months, I’d like to remind members about BQ’s Extreme Weather Policy.
HOT WEATHER:
- Players, officials and spectators should always be encouraged to wear head hats or other head protection. It is recommended that a hat be part of Club uniform.
- Drinks should be available at every venue where play/ competition takes place. Tap water should be available free of charge and in unlimited quantities. Other drinks may be served or sold as determined by each Club.
- When the temperature reaches 35C, play/competition can be interrupted at regular intervals for a short period of time (at the conclusion of the current end), during which time drinks should be made available.
- The temperature reading should be taken from a ventilated location, not in direct sunlight, which will allow a general reading.
- Where available, shelter should be offered for players and officials not involved in current play.
- Where the temperature reaches 40C, it is recommended that play/competition be discontinued.
- It will be at the discretion of the Umpire/Controlling Body to determine whether to discontinue play. In making the decision, the Umpire/Controlling Body will take account of all relevant factors including the age and health of players and officials, the weather conditions and climate for that part of the country, the level of humidity, the evacuation and emergency plans for the Club and venue and the amount of shade or shelter available at the venue.
- The Umpire/Controlling Body must take serious considerations upon a complaint and request from a player, players playing in the competition about the playing conditions as set out above at the time that the request is made.
I’ve also put together some information on humidity for your reference. The following material is for information only.
What is a comfortable humidity?
- The ideal humidity for health and comfort is somewhere between 30 – 50% humidity.
- This means that the air holds between 30 – 50% of the maximum of moisture it can contain.
Why is it important to remain hydrated?
• Good hydration means getting the right amount of water before, during and after exercise. Water regulates your body temperature and lubricates your joints.
Why is it important for Bowlers/Athletes to drink water?
• As we exercise the core body temperature rises, which makes the body sweat so it does not overheat.
• Staying hydrated replaces the water lost through sweating and is essential for helping prevent cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
• Symptoms of dehydration are – dry mouth, lips, eyes, feeling thirsty, dry, lightheaded and tired.
Why is fluid important during playing bowls?
• Water has many important roles in the body and is required to maintain blood volume and regulate body temperature.
• During exercise, the body cools itself by sweating, but this ultimately results in loss of body fluid which, if not replaced, can lead to dehydration. Sweat production (fluid loss) increases with increasing temperatures and humidity as well as an increase in exercise intensity.
