NSAA introduces new thermometer to keep Nebraska athletes safe in the heat

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – Even before school begins, high school athletes across Nebraska are out battling the heat.

To keep those kids safe, the Nebraska School Activities Association introduced a wet bulb globe thermometer, which will measure heat and humidity levels at practices and games.

“Obviously it takes into consideration heat and humidity like a heat index reading would, but the kestrel device also takes into account sun angle, cloud cover, wind, beyond just heat and humidity,” said Nate Neuhaus, assistant director at NSAA.

The thermometer’s reading is measured by a chart that clearly marks when it is safe to practice in full pads or not.

Coaches use this information to decide if it’s okay to practice or if they need to adjust because of the heat.

“It’s affected a little bit, how you gotta organize because football is so routine based with when you practice,” said Reed Manstedt, Wavery High School football coach.  “But at the same time, it’s all for the better.”

Coaches across the state have been very welcoming to the new safety change.

“Those being made available to high schools is a very good thing,” said Glen Snodgrass, York High School football coach.  “If it saves the life of one kid, it’s all worth it.”

As for game time, the heat is handled a bit differently than in practice

Neuhaus says they will call for extended water breaks, additional timeouts and in some cases getting the pads off of players.