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SOUTHWEST ASIA - U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Alexander Geary, 380th Expeditionary Security Forces Squadron patrolman, takes a break in the shade and hydrates June 29, 2012. Geary is deployed from Tinker Air Force Base, Okla. (U.S. Air Force photo/Master Sgt. Scott MacKay)
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Take break before your body breaks
Posted 6/29/2012 Updated 6/29/2012
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Commentary by Staff Sgt. Colleen Silvestri
380th Expeditionary Medical Group Bioenvironmental Engineering
6/29/2012 - SOUTHWEST ASIA -- "Stopping For Water Keeps You Going" is this summer's Occupational Safety and Health Administration's heat stress campaign statement.
This tag line is very fitting for the 380th Air Expeditionary Wing.
Since people often are pushing themselves to their limits in order to get the job done, and temperatures are much higher in desert climates than in the U.S., it is especially critical for each person here to get water, rest and shade. No one is an exception, because no amount of acclimatization or level of fitness will cancel out the effects of heat on the body.
Having a "tough it out" attitude won't help the mission when people fall out due to heat injuries, but the following tips will combat the damaging effects of heat on the body.
-- Drink water often, even if thirst isn't present, and don't forget to hydrate at night.
-- Rest in the shade or in air conditioning.
-- Heat stress symptoms should be reported early. Symptoms of heat illness include headache, dry mouth, dizziness, weakness, nausea, muscle cramps and spasms, red face and skin, and a strong, rapid pulse.
-- Don't wait too long to take a break, the body has a harder time cooling itself in higher temperatures and humidity. If personal protective equipment (chemical protection suits, coveralls, respirators, individual body armor, etc.) is used and moderate-to-hard work is accomplished outdoors, the risk for heat illness is even greater.
Take care of your health so the mission can continue. Supervisors, keep in mind that your people need breaks, and in the summer it is paramount. Remember that shade, water and rest will prevent and treat heat stress. |
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