As fans gather across communities to celebrate the start of this year’s global soccer tournament, the American Red Cross North Texas Region urges everyone to make safety part of their match-day plans. High temperatures can increase the risk of heat-related illness, and large crowds can make it harder to stay connected with loved ones on match days. Whether fans are watching the game at stadiums, in outdoor spaces or even at home, taking simple steps can help ensure that every match day is both exciting and safe.
As the soccer pitch heats up, so does the summer weather. Use these safety tips to stay cool on match day.
Stay Hydrated
- Drink a cup of water every 20 minutes, even if you aren’t thirsty.
- Avoid sugary, caffeinated or alcoholic drinks.
- Check your urine color. Dark yellow means to drink more water.
Stay Cool
- If your home gets too hot, know where air-conditioned places like local malls, libraries or cooling centers are located. Being in the shade outside may be cooler than staying inside without air conditioning.
- Take cool showers or baths. You can also use a wet cloth, spray water on your skin or wear damp clothing.
- Limit outdoor activity to when it’s cooler, like the early morning or after sunset, and stay in the shade.
- Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothes in light colors.
- Protect yourself from the sun by wearing a hat with a wide brim, sunglasses and sunscreen (SPF 15+).
Stay Connected
- Talk to your doctor if you have a medical condition, are pregnant or are taking medicine.
- Check on your loved ones and neighbors. Remind them to stay hydrated and cool.
- Sign up for free emergency alerts from your local government to get updates about cooling centers open in your community.
No matter how you’re celebrating soccer, make a plan to stay connected at large-crowd events.
Create an emergency communications plan
- Create a text message group for all attendees for event planning and day-of updates.
- Inform loved ones or friends where you will be if attending a large event.
- Have a list of emergency contacts written down.
- Make an emergency contact card using this Red Cross template.
Establish a meeting place
- Have a predetermined meeting place in case your group gets separated.
- Determine what route you will take to get there.
Stay Informed
- Plan to stay informed by monitoring local weather and news reports.
- Have a backup battery or another way to charge your cell phone, and a battery-powered or hand-crank radio.
- Download the free Red Cross Emergency app for real-time alerts, expert advice in both English and Spanish, and available disaster shelter and support locations.
- Consider taking a first aid and CPR course, so you’ll know what to do in an emergency if help is delayed. Visit redcross.org/TakeAClass or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) to register for a class today.
About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.
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