ECB's Extreme Weather Guidance for the Recreational Game provides practical steps that can be taken to assess and enhance the welfare of all individuals involved in cricket.
In summary:
- Check forecasts, Heat-Health Alerts, UV levels, air quality and local ground conditions before training or matches, including mapping the shade at your ground, stillness, humidity and heat reflected from the ground.
- Plan ahead for hot weather, including water, shade, cooling aids, longer drinks breaks and welfare checks for players, officials, volunteers and spectators.
- Consider changing start times, shortening activity, suspending play or postponing/rearranging fixtures where heat, humidity or local conditions create welfare concerns.
- Pay particular attention to people at greater risk in the heat, including young children, older adults and those with existing health conditions.
- Monitor for signs of heat-related illness, including tiredness, dizziness, headache, nausea, excessive sweating, cramps, fast breathing or heartbeat, confusion or collapse.
- Treat suspected heatstroke as a medical emergency and seek immediate medical help.
- Encourage sun protection, including SPF 30+ sunscreen, regular reapplication, hats, sunglasses, lightweight clothing and provision of shade.
- If thunder or lightning is present, stop activity and get everyone indoors immediately. Do not delay to cover pitches or move equipment. Follow the 30/30 rule.