Hot fun in the summertime: preventing heat-related illnesses

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Kylsee Wisseman
  • 7th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
DYESS AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  Living in The Big Country, Team Dyess is no stranger to the hot weather of Texas. Just when you think it cannot possibly get any hotter, it does.

As a precaution, it is important to remind ourselves of the hazards associated with hot weather. At Dyess, some members are required to spend a lot of time working in temperatures that can reach triple digits, making heat safety even more important among Airmen.

"The temperatures are rising in West Texas, and it is important for Airmen and their families to be familiar with the signs of heat distress and plan around the scorching summer days," said Staff Sgt. Michael Warstler, 7th Bomb Wing Safety Office. "In addition, Airmen making plans to spend the days outside should be aware of the heat stress conditions."

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has the following recommendations to help avoid becoming a casualty to heat:

-Stay hydrated by drinking more fluids regardless of activity level

-Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing

-Stay indoors in air-conditioned areas

-Limit outdoor activities to morning and evening hours

"There are many risks when Airmen and their families are outside on a hot day including dehydration, heat exhaustion and heat stroke," Warstler said.

With prolonged exposure to heat without the proper precautions, a person can be at a higher risk for heat exhaustion. If a person is experiencing the following symptoms, they may be suffering from heat exhaustion:

-Profuse sweating

-Weakness

-Muscle Cramps

-Nausea and vomiting

-Headache

These symptoms can usually be treated at home, as long as the victim is able to hydrate. If they cannot hold down fluids due to vomiting, seek medical attention immediately.

"When a person stops sweating or becomes confused, they may be suffering from a heat stroke," Warstler said. "This is a life-threatening condition and the person should be moved to a cool area and emergency services should be called."

Children are at higher risk of experiencing heat-related injuries. It is better for them to stay indoors when temperatures are above 80 degrees Fahrenheit; however, if they must be outside Warstler suggests the following tips to keep them safe:

-Offer water or sports drink regularly

-Apply 30+ SPF sunscreen 20 minutes prior to sun exposure and reapply every two hours

-Never leave children in a parked car

In order to keep Airmen mission ready, it is a top priority to keep an eye on the summer heat. The 7th Biomedical Engineering Flight observes the heat stress conditions to emphasize that Airmen adhere to the published work/rest cycles according to each condition.

"In making our Airmen aware of each heat stress condition, we educate each direct line supervisor and then make them aware of the symptoms of heat-related illnesses," said Airman 1st Class Adam Disque, Bioenvironmental Engineering Flight. "Heat stress is important because in hot environments our physical and mental performance can drastically be degraded. It's our goal to ensure every member is safe and can continue to accomplish the mission."

By being prepared, knowing the risks and symptoms and how to prevent heat stress, Airmen and their families can continue to have a fun, safe and healthy summer.

"Summer is a nice, fun way to spend time with family and friends. Hydration, sun protection and knowing the signs of heat-related illnesses are keys to ensuring a safe, healthy and fun summer," Warstler said.

If you have any questions on how to maintain safety during the critical days of summer, contact the Dyess safety office at (325) 696-5574.