The updated Climate Policy has been issued by Basketball Victoria as an advisory only and as an interim advice. Please note the VJBL and all associated competitions will be implementing this policy as of tomorrow (27th February.)
In addition to the procedure laid down in the advisory, it is recommended that where stadiums do not have cooling systems, fans be made available in stadiums where players can cool down, perhaps on the benches. If the outside temperature is cooler than the inside court temperature, particularly if there is a cool breeze outside, if it is at all possible, stadium doors should be opened to allow the breeze through.
As you would all be aware, tomorrow is expected to reach the high 30’s, we urge you all to familiarise yourself with this updated policy and ensure your venue has a number of thermometers on hand to measure the court temperatures.
It is essential the following steps are taken:
- Full knowledge of availability of first aid equipment and first aid and medical personnel is accessible by all persons attending;
- Referees and other officials are aware of the symptoms of heat stress and are instructed to be on the alert to notice any such symptoms;
- Referees are instructed to initiate regular extra time-outs during the game and to shorten the game if necessary;
- Players are made aware of the need to hydrate regularly before and after the game and that facilities are available for them to do so;
- Facilities are available for players and other persons to externally cool themselves with water, fans or other facilities;
- Adequate supplies of ice and ice packs are available for use where appropriate; and
- Proper advice is available to coaches and players on the effects of heat, symptoms of heat stress, the need for proper hydration and the facilities that are available to prevent or treat heat stress.
In summary:
- Once the temperature on the court reaches 30 degrees, the stadium manager may consider implementing the heat policy.
- Once the court temperature reaches 35 degrees, it is compulsory for the heat policy to be implemented.
- Once the court temperature reaches 40 degrees all games are to be called off – at this point the VJBL emergency line must be called by the Stadium Manager before the final decision is made.
Click here to download a full copy of the Basketball Victoria Climate Policy
