By By Matthew Nascone
There is no doubt the summer heat is present in Atmore. The temperatures have reached the high 90s with the humidity levels reaching into the 110s. These high temperatures have forced school officials in the area to safeguard athletic practices.
In Escambia County, superintendent Billy Hines said the county is providing means to keep athletes hydrated on the field.
"We have made sure our students are hydrated by providing three cases of the powdered Gatorade to each school," Hines said. "That is about 90 gallons of Gatorade. And we told each coach to get them Gatorade or water before, during and after practice. We want to make sure they are hydrated."
Hines said the Gatorade has been provided to the football teams and to the bands at some schools. There are also frequent breaks that are given to drink liquids.
Escambia County High School head football coach Kyle Davis said he is doing everything he can to take care of the athletes' well-being while running an effective practice.
"We make sure to get them plenty of fluids before practice and we have about 30 minutes of break time throughout our practice," Davis said. "And we don't restrict anybody who says they need water. If a kid wants water, they are free to get some water."
Davis said he wants to make sure he takes care of his team.
"The well-being of our kids is the biggest concern we have out here," he said. "We make sure they are taken care of."
Across the border in Escambia County Schools in Florida schools are not allowed to perform outside activities between the hours of 9 a.m. and 7 p.m., according to a press release.
If a football team wants to hold practice, they must do it before 9 a.m. or after 7 p.m. The Northview High School football team held practice after 7 p.m. through today. After tonight, schools may resume normal outdoor activities.