101 Critical Days of Summer - Heat Safety

  • Published
  • By by Tech. Sgt. Amber Honeycutt and Christina Whaley
  • 95th Medical Group and Air Force Flight Test Center Ground Safety
EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  When people think about Edwards, and the 101 Critical Days of Summer, one distinct word comes to mind; HOT! Not only is the Mojave Desert dry, but temperatures during the summer months are extreme.

Extreme heat opens the flood gates for potential heat-related illnesses such as heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke. While these illnesses are preventable, hundreds of Americans die each year from heat exposure. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more people die from heat-related illnesses than from hurricanes, tornados, floods and earthquakes combined. The threat is serious and for people living the desert life, it is important they protect themselves.

Prevention is pro-action in regards to heat related illnesses. By knowing the signs and symptoms of these illnesses, and following a few basic steps for protection, people can ensure a safe and pleasant summer.

Heat cramps are painful and usually occur in ones arms, legs and abdomen. They usually affect individuals who sweat profusely during strenuous activity. Heat cramps set in when the body loses salt as a result of heavy sweating. If this occurs, stop activity and find a cool place to sit down. Drink water or a diluted sports drink. Avoid returning to the activity even if the cramps subside as it can lead to more serious heat-related illness.

Heat exhaustion can be characterized by heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea/vomiting or fainting. The skin may be cool and moist to the touch. If left untreated, this can lead to heat stroke. Individuals suffering from heat exhaustion need to be cooled immediately. Cooling methods include cool water, rest, air conditioning or a cool shower or bath.

Heat stroke is the most serious of the three and it can ultimately lead to death if not treated in a timely manner. At this point, the body is no longer able to regulate its temperature. Individuals suffering from heat stroke will have an extremely high temperature and red, hot and dry skin. The sweating mechanism fails and the body is unable to cool down.

Other symptoms include headache, dizziness, confusion and unconsciousness. Individuals with these symptoms require immediate medical attention. Move the victim to a shaded area and begin cooling the victim using any source around (immerse in tub of cool water, cool shower, water hose, etc.). DO NOT give the victim fluids to drink. Monitor body temperature and continue cooling methods until help arrives.

Those are the symptoms and how to treat them, however, further discussion of prevention is required. Following these basic steps can prevent heat illnesses.

1. Drink, drink, drink: In a hot environment, 16-32 ounces of water an hour is recommended. Water is the beverage of choice. Steer clear of sodas, caffeinated drinks and sugary juices. Sports drinks are okay, but dilute them with water before consuming.

2. Get acclimated: Before hitting the trails or going for a long run, gradually acclimate to the environment. Start slowly and go at an easy pace. If the heat gets too hot and leaves someone gasping for air, STOP and get into the shade immediately.

3. Wear appropriate clothing and apply sunscreen often: Lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing is the best. When choosing a sunscreen, chose a broad spectrum or UVA/UVB product with an SPF of 15 or higher. Apply it before going out into the sun and reapply often according to directions.

4. Bring a wingman: Signs and symptoms of heat illnesses can happen quickly. Have a buddy to monitor each other's condition.

5. Finally, monitor the base's heat index and the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) level and flag status. This information can be found on the Air Force Portal or base residents can contact Bio Environmental Engineering at (661) 277-3272.