How student athletes can stay protected as heat persists in South Mississippi

GULFPORT, Miss. (WXXV) – As the new school year begins, student-athletes are back on the field, but the summer heat isn’t letting up.

In South Mississippi, high temperatures continue to average around 90 degrees. Each year, nearly 9,000 high school athletes nationwide are treated for heat-related illnesses.

As South Mississippi continues to experience intense heat, West Harrison is taking steps to protect their student athletes. It’s a team effort for coaches and staff to make sure every athlete stays safe in the heat.