PracticeCast
Current policy confirmed by 2026 Vermont health guidance · last source review

Vermont WBGT rules for high school sports.

Vermont mandates a five-band Category 1 WBGT procedure for all sports, with activity-site measurements and progressive rest, equipment, and duration limits.

What coaches need to know

  • Below 76.2°F WBGT: normal activity with shade and unrestricted fluids.
  • 76.2–81.0°F: use discretion and provide three 4-minute breaks each hour.
  • 81.1–84.0°F: maximum 2-hour practice, 15–20 minute work intervals, and equipment limits.
  • 84.1–86.0°F: maximum 1-hour practice, 20 minutes of rest, shorts only, no conditioning, and no practice from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
  • 86.1°F and above: no outdoor workouts.

Procedure for Athletic Participation in the Heat

VPA describes this as a mandatory procedure for all sports. Readings begin at least one hour before activity and repeat every 30 minutes in moderate through extreme conditions. VPA permits a heat-index monitor and estimate chart when a WBGT device is cost-prohibitive.

ConditionWhat the coach does
WBGT under 76.2°Minimal risk — normal activity
  • Continue normal activity with shaded areas and unrestricted fluids available.
WBGT 76.2°–81.1°Low risk — use discretion
  • Use discretion for intense or prolonged activity and watch at-risk athletes.
  • Provide at least three rest and fluid breaks each hour, at least 4 minutes each.
WBGT 81.1°–84.1°Moderate risk — 2-hour maximum
  • Use 15–20 minutes of activity followed by at least 4 minutes of rest and fluids.
  • Limit practice to 2 hours.
  • Practice in shorts, helmets, and shoulder pads only.
  • Remove all equipment for conditioning.
WBGT 84.1°–86.1°High risk — 1-hour maximum
  • Use 20 minutes of activity followed by at least 6 minutes of rest.
  • Distribute 20 minutes of rest through the hour.
  • Limit practice to 1 hour and do not practice from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
  • Wear shorts only; no protective equipment or conditioning.
WBGT 86.1° and aboveExtreme risk — no outdoor workout
  • Delay outdoor activity until a cooler WBGT reading occurs.

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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