District 16 takes safety very seriously. We want to play baseball, but not at the risk of anyone’s health.

With the heat index expected to be over 100 on Thursday, July 13, everyone involved with District 16 tournaments should take a few minutes to familiarize themselves with the District 16 policy regarding play in extreme heat.

District 16 will follow the heat and humidity recommendations from Little League.

• When the heat index is in the Extreme Danger (red) category, games and warmups will be suspended.
• When the heat index is in the Danger (orange) category, we will take a 5-minute break at the end of the 2nd and 4th innings.
• We will resume game activities only when it is safe and appropriate to do so.
• We will use NOAA temperature, relative humidity, and heat index readings from the nearest available location. For Freedom Park in Leesburg, that is the weather station at Leesburg Executive Airport (KJYO).

Players, coaches, managers, umpires, and volunteers are encouraged (and should be reminded) to stay hydrated. We ask that everyone be vigilant. Fans should make sure family, friends, and neighbors in the stands are hydrating. Coaches should watch the players and other coaches. If anyone feels ill or sees someone showing signs of heat illness (no sweating, hot flushed skin), please alert tournament volunteers immediately.

Extreme heat conditions also tend to bring in thunderstorms, especially in the late afternoon and evening. District 16 follows the Loudoun County and Little League guidelines regarding lightning. If lightning is seen or thunder is heard, umpires will immediately suspend play for 30 minutes. Any additional lightning or thunder will reset the clock to 30 minutes. Players are to return to their cars and remain there until play can be resumed or the game is called.