It is estimated that approximately 9,000 secondary school athletes are treated for exertional heat illness (EHI) annually. Many of these cases can be easily managed without concern; however exertional heat stroke (EHS) is classified under the umbrella of heat illness. Unlike other heat illnesses, EHS can be fatal and is one of the leading causes of death in secondary school sports. Secondary school student-athletes have been assessed as the highest risk EHS athlete population. Awareness of EHS and proper recognition and treatment strategies is imperative to the prevention of EHS death. Awareness of EHS is important not only for medical staff and coaches but athletes and parents as well. It is unknown whether adolescent athletes and their parents are aware of the signs, symptoms and prevention techniques for EHS, therefore an increased awareness and better preventive measures are needed. This study analyzed secondary school parents’ awareness and perceptions regarding EHS recognition and treatment procedures. A total of 378 out of 417 parent surveys were collected in southern California from thirteen football booster club meetings; eight semi-structured follow-up interviews were conducted to provide further insight into the attitudes and perceptions of the parents of football secondary school student athletes. Based on the results of the survey, it was determined that many of the parent respondents believed themselves to have an adequate knowledge of concepts related to EHS. However, the scores of knowledge test indicated the highest possible score on the knowledge test was 31 points, the median score was an average score of 36.6% of the highest possible score. Despite a lack of knowledge regarding EHS, parents were supportive of the use of rectal temperature assessment and cold-water immersion as diagnosis and treatment procedures for EHS. Among the possible factors that influence parents’ attitudes towards EHS treatments; gender, education and whether a parent was a healthcare provider were the most common. It was determined that having an athletic trainer at the child’s school was significantly associated with support for cold-water immersion and rectal temperature assessment. The findings of the qualitative analysis helped demonstrate the tendency of participants to prioritize the safety and well-being of the secondary student athletes. The data implies there is an understanding for the importance and necessity of rectal temperature procedures for EHS assessment. Parents as well as coaches, athletic trainers, and administrators should be educated about the importance of proper preparation and planning regarding EHI and other emergencies in high school sports.
