Pickleball Heat Safety Tips: As temperatures soared across Craven County this week, pickleball players in New Bern chose to keep playing at Creekside Park in James City. Despite the summer heat, local fans stayed active and found smart ways to stay cool while enjoying their favorite outdoor sport.
Groups of dedicated picklers were seen on the courts in the evening, wiping away sweat and smiling between points. For many, the heat wasn’t a reason to stop playing—it was a reason to plan better.
Creative Ways to Stay Cool
Wayne McCracken of New Bern wasn’t fazed by the heat. “I love the hot weather,” he said. “I like to sweat. I like it.” Others, like Lynn Todes, took a more humorous view. “My hair frizzes up, my face is sweaty, and my clothes are sticking to me,” she said, laughing.
Kelly Bobrowski summed it up in two words: “Profuse sweating.”
Some players, including Bob Todes, didn’t seem bothered at all. “It doesn’t really bother me that much,” he said.
To beat the heat, most players followed a smart checklist:
Wear light, breathable clothes
Bring wet rags
Stay hydrated with water or sports drinks
Take regular breaks
Play early mornings or late evenings
And in a bold move, Wayne McCracken even chose Diet Coke as his drink of choice.
When It’s Too Hot to Play
If the heat became too much, players didn’t hesitate to call it off. “Just be smart about it,” said Kelly Bobrowski. Many also found relief after play by jumping into a pool or taking a cold shower. “I just scoot home and jump in a cold shower or the pool,” she said.
Knowing the Risks of Heat Exposure
Experts warn that high heat and humidity can make it hard for the body to cool down, especially during physical activity. If too much fluid is lost through sweat, people can face heat-related illnesses. It’s important to watch for signs and know what to do.
Heat Cramps
Symptoms: Painful cramps, heavy sweating
First Aid: Stretch, sip water, get help if it lasts over an hour
Heat Exhaustion
Symptoms: Fatigue, pale skin, weak pulse, headache
First Aid: Cool down, loosen clothes, sip water, seek help if needed
Heat Stroke (Emergency)
Symptoms: Temp over 103°F, hot dry skin, confusion, fainting
First Aid: Call 911, cool the person down, avoid fans if heat index is high, don’t give fluids
Keeping Safety First
Despite the heat, the joy of the game brought players to the courts. With the right planning and awareness, they continued playing safely. Community members reminded each other that staying healthy is more important than pushing too hard.
News in Brief: Pickleball Heat Safety Tips
Pickleball fans in New Bern braved this week’s heat wave to play at Creekside Park. Players used cold rags, hydration, and smart scheduling to stay safe. With expert advice and close attention to symptoms, the community balanced fun and safety under the summer sun.
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