TOP STORY>>Hints on beating Arkansas’ heat

By Staff Sgt. Jessica Condit
19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

As the morning light signals the start of a new day, military members must prepare for the blistering heat of the summer sun. After the sun rises, the heat becomes more unbearable to people working outside. Then temperatures increase, and the dangers of heat exhaustion, dehydration and sun stroke increase as well. Knowing how to manage the heat and how to respond in case of a heat related emergency can greatly reduce the risk of heat related incidents.

Although some may say they have grown accustomed to working in the summer heat at Little Rock Air Force Base, Ark., risks are still prevalent. Many people do not realize they are suffering from heat-related incidents until it is too late. Heat related injuries include heat exhaustion, heat stroke, sunburn and dehydration.

Some signs of dehydration are thirst, loss of appetite, dry skin, dry mouth, fatigue and chills. Left untreated dehydration can result in fatality. Another way to test for dehydration is checking skin turgor. To check skin turgor, pinch the skin on the back of the hand and pull up. If the skin stays up, dehydration has set in. Immediately hydrate with water or any sports drink to replenish electrolytes into the body. This simple test will show how much elasticity has left the skin because of dehydration.

To help prevent heat related incidents, the Air Force uses a heat stress index. The heat stress index provides a guideline for heat conditions and recommended work-rest cycles. Although this provides guidance for airmen, it is up to the judgment of supervisors whether the work warrants breaks according to the recommended activity level of the heat stress index. The heat stress index is categorized into five stages, stage one being the coolest and stage five being the hottest.

Supervisors play an important role in making sure Airmen are properly hydrated and helping them avoid heat related incidents, said Joe Wooding, a 19th Airlift Wing ground safety technician. Making sure troops are getting adequate breaks and are provided ample opportunities to hydrate is a very important factor in preventing heat related injuries.

During the summer months, it is especially important for Air Force members to maintain hydration while exercising, said Wooding.

“I would definitely recommend organized PT very early in the morning or later in the evening,” said Wooding. “Definitely don’t PT right in the heat of the day.”

Although heat related incidents occur during normal duty hours, Wooding said the majority of heat related incidents for base members occur during non-duty hours. A mixture of outdoor activities, alcohol and no supervision can result in a dangerous combination. People enjoying the summer often do not stop to hydrate adequately or consume too much alcohol, resulting in severe dehydration or worse.

“Hydration is key,” said Wooding. “you need to have the designated sober guy. Somebody that’s paying attention to what’s going on around them and taking care of their wingman.”

Another heat related incident is sunburn. Outdoor activities that involve water often result in the worst cases of sunburn, said Wooding. Anyone enjoying the summer sun should make sure to use sunscreen with at least Air Force recommended SPF 15.

Whether working on the flight line in the blazing sun or enjoying a nice day with friends and family on the lake, protecting your skin from the sun and staying hydrated are pertinent to staying healthy. During the hottest days of the year, remember to always stay hydrated. Taking the proper safety measure and learning the signs and symptoms of heat stress and dehydration can prevent an accident, or save a life.