How Schools and Programs Can Sign Up and Take Part in National Stay Cool Day 4/8/27

How Your School Can Join National Stay Cool Day

Joining National Stay Cool Day is simple, free of complicated paperwork, and one of the most meaningful things an athletic department can do for its athletes. On April 8, 2027, participating schools and programs will help set a Guinness World Record while teaching heat stroke prevention to their communities. Here is how to take part.

Who Can Participate

Any group that cares about athlete safety can join:

• High schools and middle schools
• Colleges and universities
• Youth leagues, clubs and recreation programs
• Individual teams and athletic departments
• Families, community groups and local businesses that want to support them

You do not need a medical staff or a big budget. You need a willing adult and a plan.

Step 1: Register Your Program

Start by signing up on our website so we can count your school toward the record attempt. Registration helps us track participation across the country and keeps you informed about the event requirements and any updates. Use the sign-up page to add your school or program.

Step 2: Choose a Point Person

Name one person to lead your participation, such as an athletic director, head athletic trainer, coach or parent volunteer. That person will coordinate the session, gather participants and make sure your program follows the event guidelines.

Step 3: Plan Your Session

Plan a short, practical session built around the core message of the day. A good session covers:

1. How to recognize exertional heat stroke
2. Why cooling comes before transport
3. A walk-through of your program’s emergency plan
4. A hands-on look at your cooling setup, such as a tub, ice and towels

You can use our guides on heat stroke symptoms and cold water immersion as the foundation.

Step 4: Gather Participants

The record depends on numbers, so invite everyone: athletes, coaches, parents, teachers, administrators and staff. Announce the event through your newsletter, school website, social media and morning announcements. Ask your booster club or parent association to help spread the word.

Step 5: Take Part on April 8, 2027

Hold your session on or around the event date and follow the participation instructions provided when you register. Take photos and keep your attendance records, because documentation is a key part of any record attempt.

Why Participating Is Worth It

Schools that join send a clear message to families: we take your child’s safety seriously. Participation also gives your staff a shared plan before the hot weather arrives, brings positive attention to your program, and connects you with a national network of schools working on the same goal.

Most important, the skills your community learns will stay with them long after the event.

Tips for a Strong Turnout

• Pick a time when most people can attend
• Ask local EMS or a sports medicine professional to join
• Invite local media to cover the session
• Share your plans with neighboring schools and challenge them to join

Get Started Today

The sooner you register, the more time you have to plan. Visit our sign-up page to add your school, then read about what National Stay Cool Day is and download the prevention checklist to share with your staff.

Together, we can make April 8, 2027 a day athletes remember for the right reasons.