 |
| News > Commentary - Stay hydrated my friends |
|
|
| |
| Photos | |
 |
Drink at least one-half liter of water per hour to stay hydrated and prevent heat-related injuries. (U.S. Air Force photo/Tech. Sgt. Arian Nead)
|
Download HiRes
|
|
|
|
Stay hydrated my friends
Posted 6/18/2012 Updated 6/18/2012
Email story
Print story
Commentary by Staff Sgt. Larry Simon
380th Expeditionary Medical Group Bioenvironmental Engineering
6/18/2012 - SOUTHWEST ASIA -- Summer is in full swing, and temperatures here can be expected to reach above 115 degrees Fahrenheit daily.
The 380th Air Expeditionary Wing is already reaching "black flag," meaning temperatures above 90 degrees, by 9 a.m. The body is susceptible to heat and will feel the effects of this increased solar load.
The Wet Bulb Globe Temperature Index is the net amount of heat the body is subject to and is determined by four measurements. Ambient air temperature, mean radiant temperature, air speed, and absolute humidity data are combined to provide a detailed assessment of the environment's influence on thermal stress.
When the body cannot handle the amount of heat it's subjected to, it may succumb to heat-related injuries such as heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Heat stress can put significant strain on the physical, physiological and mental abilities. Feeling thirsty is the first sign of experiencing initial heat stress symptoms.
Bioenvironmental engineering personnel monitor WBGT readings daily and this data, and the corresponding flag condition, can be found by dialing 434-HEAT (4328). Each flag condition has a work/rest cycle and water consumption recommendation.
Throughout the day, people should drink at least 0.5 liters of water, or one water bottle, per hour. As the flag conditions change, increase water intake accordingly. However, to prevent over-hydration, fluid intake should not exceed 1.5 liters per hour, or 12 liters per day.
Don't wait until thirsty to drink water. Commanders and supervisors should monitor and be vigilant of the WBGT and provide guidance to work-rest cycles and hydration criteria. For more information about heat stress and heat-related injuries, call bioenvironmental engineering at 434-2716. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
