Hot fun in the summertime Published June 17, 2013 By Tech. Sgt. James Fountain 17th Training Wing Safety Office GOODFELLOW AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- During the summer months, it's very important to keep in mind what can happen when you are exposed to hot weather over long periods of time. Temperatures average in the upper 90s during summer days, so it is important to be prepared for heat related illnesses. Heat stress happens when a person becomes overheated and cannot sustain the appropriate body temperature. By knowing and avoiding risk factors, people can prevent heat stress. Some risk factors include: · High temperature and humidity · Direct sun exposure and no breeze or wind · Low liquid intake · Heavy physical labor · Waterproof clothing Some signs and symptoms of heat stress are: · Headache, dizziness, or fainting · Weakness and wet skin · Irritability or confusion · Thirst, nausea, or vomiting · Unable to sweat Tips on how to prevent heat related illnesses: · Know the signs and symptoms and monitor yourself · Block out direct sun and other heat sources · Drink plenty of fluids. Thirst is a sign of dehydration, so drink even if you're not thirsty · Avoid beverages containing alcohol or caffeine · Wear lightweight, light colored, loose-fitting clothes By being prepared, knowing the risks and symptoms and how to prevent heat stress, you can continue to have a safe and healthy summer. Now that preparations have been made to prevent heat stress, here are some safety tips for a popular summertime activity; barbequing. · Position your grill a minimum of three feet away from other objects, including the house and any shrubs or bushes. Some recommendations suggest a much greater distance - as much as 25 feet - to prevent the possible spread of fire to buildings. · Place your barbecue on a stable base. A wobbly grill is a hazard. · Before using a gas grill, check all the connections for leaks. This is important whether using a portable propane tank or have a direct natural gas line. The best way to check for leaks is to get some soapy water, place on all the the joints and connections. Watch for tiny bubbles to form. If they do, there is a leak that needs to be fixed before lighting the grill. · Check for grease build-up and clean if necessary. Excessive grease can flare in unexpected places at unexpected times. · Check for badly rusted and corroded burners and replace as needed. Many hardware and department stores carry universal replacement burners, or the piece can be ordered from the manufacturer. · Never leave young children unattended in the vicinity of a hot barbecue... and don't let them play close by. · If using charcoal briquettes, use the minimum amount of lighter fluid necessary to start the coals. · Always light a gas barbecue with the lid open. If it doesn't start after a couple of tries, turn off the gas and wait five minutes for the gas to dissipate before trying again. · Loose fitting, flowing clothing is a hazard as it can be blown over the flame and ignite. · While dealing with fire, have a fire extinguisher or the garden hose close by in the event of a serious flare-up. Do not use water on a grease fire. Water will make the grease spread and flare up. · When finished cooking on a gas barbecue, be sure to turn off the gas valve on the tank and on the gas pipe. · Never bring a barbecue grill indoors, or into any unventilated space such as a garage. This is both a fire and carbon monoxide poisoning hazard. A good old-fashioned helping of common sense will go a long way to ensuring that barbecuing is safe and enjoyable.
