Heat Will Be A Big Factor At 2008 Hoopfest

SPOKANE — There is enough anticipation of hot weather this weekend that the Spokane Regional Health District has issued a heat advisory for all athletes playing in Hoopfest.

When you combine the full day of sun exposure, exercise and the blacktop, it could get dangerous, especially for people who aren’t used to playing basketball in 90-degree heat.

The SRHD says they are issuing the warning as a reminder so that people are mindful of what they are up against when they head out this weekend.

If you are planning on coming to Hoopfest, make sure to wear light-colored and lightweight clothing, drink plenty of water and wear sunscreen. If you get a sunburn, you don’t sweat well through the damaged skin, so your body has a difficult time cooling off. Also, seek shaded areas when you’re not playing basketball.

“Some of the risk is not so much for the players if they’re young and healthy and playing as a result,” says epidemiologist Bill Edstrom. “It’s the ones that are just jumping into it at the last minute that havent been exercising the whole time.”

“I’m not too worried,” says Pat Webinget, who will be playing in Hoopfest. “I’m used to higher temperatures. It doesnt bother me too much, but I bring lots of water and a cooler.”

If you need medical attention there will be three first aid stations at Hoopfest. One is at the corner of Washington and Main, another is at the corner of Post and Main and the third is on the north side of the Spokane River on Mallon.

Meanwhile, brackets for Hoopfest 2008 were announced Thursday morning. To view where your team is playing, click here
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Team registration begins Thursday from 4 to 6 p.m. and continues Friday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.