Extreme Heat Policy  

Dragonfly Leisure takes the wellbeing of its members, visitors, volunteers and employees seriously and is committed to prioritising the safety and welfare of all individuals who participate at all Dragonfly Leisure Centres. 

Extreme heat can pose significant health and safety risks, particularly during periods of prolonged high temperatures and heatwaves. Dragonfly Leisure recognises its duty of care to provide, as far as reasonably practicable, a safe environment for participation in sport, recreation and related activities. 

This Extreme Heat Policy has been developed to provide guidance to employees, members, visitors and volunteers on the management of activities during periods of extreme heat.  

The policy establishes clear procedures for monitoring heat conditions and outlines the actions to be taken when heat stress levels reach thresholds that may place participants at risk. 

The aim of this policy is to minimise the risk of heat-related illness and injury, support informed decision-making regarding the modification or suspension of activities, and ensure that all participants can enjoy a safe and positive experience at Dragonfly Leisure centres during periods of hot weather. 

This policy supports Dragonfly Leisure’s responsibilities under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 by identifying, assessing and managing foreseeable risks associated with extreme heat. 

Dragonfly Leisure will use the Met Office for assessing the potential severity of heat stress for all.  

The Flag system  

The following flag system is used by Dragonfly Leisure to assess heat stress risk levels and determine appropriate precautions. Attention should be paid to individuals who are unacclimatised to hot weather, as they are more susceptible to heat-related illness and may require additional monitoring or restrictions. 

Measurement Procedures  

Temperatures will be monitored by the site’s duty management team, throughout periods of hot weather.  

Where possible readings should be taken every 2 hour hours. As a minimum three readings must be recorded daily.  

In addition, a further reading must be taken: 

• Following any suspension of play or activity due to heat, before a decision is made to resume participation. 

All readings shall be recorded and retained by Dragonfly Leisure for monitoring and compliance purposes. Decisions regarding the modification, suspension, or resumption of activities must be based on the most recent Met Office information and any other relevant environmental conditions. 

Staying Safe in the Sun 

Raising Awareness of sun protection in sport 

Playing sporting activities in a heatwave can put you in the firing line for all sorts of undesirable problems, including sunburn, heatstroke, dehydration, and heat exhaustion. 

Here are some tips from the Melanoma Fund’s Sunguarding Sport campaign to help you navigate safely through the heat and keep you winning those points: 

1. The sun is strongest between 11 am and 3 pm, so, if possible, play outside these hours, opting for early morning or evening. 
2. Apply a broad-spectrum product with an SPF30 or higher before you start playing, paying special attention to your ears, nose, and shoulders, as well as other areas which are prone to burning 
3. Stay hydrated by taking on as much liquid as you lose through sweat – that’s about 32 – 85 ounces (approx 1 – 2.5 litres) during an hour of play. 
4. By placing ice packs against areas where important arteries are located, you will cool down a lot quicker. Sites such as the groin, armpits, and wrists are a good place to start, as this will help cool the blood and boost the flow to your muscles. 
5. Remember that thirst is not an effective warning system – in fact, your performance will have been suffering before you feel thirsty at all. Drink at regular intervals whether you feel like it or not. 
6. On very hot days, start out your activity at a slower pace, letting your body acclimate. Be sure to stay hydrated, even if your body is responding well to the hot weather, as it will catch up on you if not. 
7. Once applied to the skin, reapply sunscreen every two hours, or more often if you are prone to excessive sweating or playing hard!  
8. Remember to wear a hat or cap. Your forehead, scalp and ears are vulnerable areas, so be sure to protect them. 
9. It is important to take breaks away from direct sunlight.
10. Allowing your skin to breathe will help you stay cool; however, ensure that the fabric is a tight weave, as this will prevent UV from penetrating to your skin beneath. 
11. Keep your cool and be mindful of how your body is adapting or reacting to the heat while you play or train. If you feel dizzy, unwell, or overly tired, stop play and rest in the shade, seeking support if required.