Critical Days of Summer week 10: summer heat protection

  • Published
  • By Will Harding
  • 17th Training Wing Safety Office
GOODFELLOW AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  We're no strangers to hot weather living in West Texas. Just when you think it can't possibly get any hotter - BAM - there is. On top of that, recent rains have left us with high humidity.

It's always good to remind ourselves of the hazards associated with hot weather. Some jobs on Goodfellow require members to spend a lot of time working in temperatures that can reach the triple digits. Other jobs require members to go from an air conditioned building to the hot outdoors and back, which can actually be harder on the body than strictly working outdoors.

When it's very hot and humid, like it's been the last few weeks, it's extremely important to hydrate properly and wear loose-fitting, breathable clothes. Try to reduce or eliminate alcohol and soda consumption. Only water or a sports drink will replenish the body's electrolyte balance.

Take extra breaks in shady areas to cool off both on- and off-duty. At work, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends that supervisors arrange schedules so members are not working outside during the hottest part of the day. At home, it's each individual's responsibility to play smart to reduce the chance of suffering a heat-related illness. If a body can't cool itself through sweating, the person is at risk of developing a heat-related illness such as heat exhaustion or even worse, a heat stroke.

Heat exhaustion symptoms include: heavy sweating, paleness, muscle cramps, tiredness, weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea, vomiting and fainting. To treat heat exhaustion, drink cool, non-alcoholic beverages, get plenty of rest, take a cool shower or bath, or go into an air-conditioned environment.

Heat stroke is much more serious. It's a life-threatening condition with symptoms of high body temperature, rapid pulse, difficulty breathing and confusion. It also requires immediate medical attention. The first step in treating heat stoke is to notify emergency services by calling 911. Next, get the victim to a shady area, remove clothing, apply cool water to the skin and fan the victim to promote evaporation. Place ice packs under the armpits and groin. Monitor the victim's body temperature with a thermometer and continue cooling efforts until the body temperature drops to at least 101 degrees.

Prevention is key. To prevent a heat-related illness, it's important to avoid becoming dehydrated and vigorous physical activities in hot and humid weather. If a physical activity must be performed in hot weather, wear a hat and light-colored, light-weight, loose clothes. Be sure to drink plenty of fluids, avoid alcoholic or caffeinated beverages and take frequent breaks, too.