FL S0606

Independent sanctioning authorities for youth athletics and the Florida High School Athletic Association must adopt guidelines informing coaches, officials, administrators, athletes, and parents of the nature and risks of exertional heat stroke (EHS) and heat-related injury.

Parents or guardians must sign and return an informed-consent form each year before youth athletes participate in any athletic competition, practice, tryout, workout, or physical activity associated with team candidacy; forms must explain EHS and heat-related injury risks.

Any youth athlete suspected of suffering from EHS or heat-related injury during practice or competition must be removed immediately and cannot return until receiving written medical clearance from a licensed physician.

Physicians may delegate medical clearance evaluations to licensed or certified health care providers under sections 458.347, 459.022, 464.012, or 468.707 if a formal supervisory relationship or written protocol exists and proficiency in EHS and heat-related injury management is attested.

Effective date: July 1, 2012.