JOINT BASE LANGLEY-EUSTIS, Va. –
Editor's Note: This story is part of a series about the Critical Days of Summer.
With the shift of the seasons comes increased potential for heat or summer activity-related injuries. A major problem during the summer is heat-related illness when outdoors. According to Occupational Health and Safety Administration, thousands of outside workers suffer from heat stroke each year, and even die from their illnesses.
Heat illness is preventable, and U.S. Service members and their families can take a few steps to ensure a safe season.
Water, rest and shade are key practices to ensure heat safety when outdoors. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offers the following tips to prevent heat-related illness:
· Drink more nonalcoholic fluids, regardless of activity level. Don't wait until you're thirsty to drink. If your doctor generally limits the amount of fluid you drink or has you on water pills, ask him how much you should drink while the weather is hot.
· Don't drink liquids that contain alcohol or large amounts of sugar-these actually cause the body to lose more fluid. Also, avoid very cold drinks because they can cause stomach cramps.
· Stay indoors and, if at all possible, stay in an air-conditioned place. If a home does not have air conditioning, go to a shopping mall or public library-even a few hours spent in air conditioning can help the body stay cooler. Call the local health department to inquire about heat-relief shelters in the area.
· Electric fans may provide comfort, but when the temperature is in the high 90s, fans will not prevent heat-related illness. Taking a cool shower or bath, or moving to an air-conditioned place is a much better way to cool off.
· Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing.
· Never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle.
· Although anyone can suffer from heat-related illness at any time, some people are at greater risk than others. Regularly check on:
o Infants and young children
o People aged 65 or older
o People who have a mental illness
o Those who are physically ill, especially with heart disease or high blood pressure
· Visit adults at risk at least twice a day.
· Limit outdoor activity to morning and evening hours.
· Cut down on exercise. If exercise is a must, drink two to four glasses of cool, nonalcoholic fluids each hour. A sports beverage can replace the salt and minerals lost in sweat. If on a low-salt diet, talk with a doctor before drinking a sports beverage.
· Wear a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses and sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher for protection from the sun. The most effective products say "broad spectrum" or "UVA/UVB protection" on their labels.
Adhering to proper practices can help Service members enjoy a safe summer this season.
For more information, visit
www.cdc.gov.