PracticeCast
Current policy with 2026 preseason plan · last source review

South Carolina WBGT rules for high school sports.

South Carolina requires a scientifically approved on-site WBGT device and readings every 30 minutes. Forecast WBGT previews the official SCHSL bands only.

What coaches need to know

  • Under 82°F: normal activity with at least three 3-minute breaks each hour.
  • 82.0–86.9°F: use discretion and provide at least three 4-minute breaks each hour.
  • 87.0–89.9°F: maximum 2-hour practice, football equipment restrictions, and four 4-minute breaks each hour.
  • 90.0–92.0°F: maximum 1-hour practice, no protective equipment or conditioning, and 20 total minutes of rest.
  • 92.1°F and above: suspend or postpone outdoor practice and competition.

Heat and Acclimatization Guidelines

SCHSL requires a scientifically approved on-site WBGT thermometer. Readings begin 30 minutes before activity and continue every 30 minutes. The guideline remains linked beside SCHSL's 2026 preseason plans.

ConditionWhat the coach does
WBGT up to 81.9°Normal activities
  • Provide at least three separate rest breaks each hour, at least 3 minutes each.
  • Provide unrestricted access to fluids during rest breaks.
WBGT 82°–86.9°Use discretion for intense or prolonged exercise
  • Watch at-risk athletes carefully.
  • Provide at least three separate rest breaks each hour, at least 4 minutes each.
WBGT 87°–89.9°Limit practice to 2 hours and modify equipment
  • Limit practice to 2 hours.
  • For football, restrict equipment to helmet, shoulder pads, and shorts; remove protective equipment for conditioning.
  • For all sports, provide at least four separate rest breaks each hour, at least 4 minutes each.
WBGT 90°–92°Limit practice to 1 hour with no conditioning
  • Limit practice to 1 hour.
  • Do not wear protective equipment and do not conduct conditioning activities.
  • Distribute 20 minutes of rest throughout the hour.
WBGT 92.1° and aboveSuspend outdoor activity
  • Suspend or postpone outdoor practice and competition.
  • Wait for a cooler on-site WBGT reading before resuming.

Source reviewed 2026-07-30. An on-site WBGT reading is required for the official call.

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Use the current governing document. Local schools, districts, leagues, activities, and medical staff may apply additional or stricter requirements.

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