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Consider these tips for preventing heat stress injuries

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Keymyn Hughes
  • 375th Aerospace Medicine Squadron
SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. --  

Although this is a time for family fun, games, and outdoor activities, it is important to be mindful of the weather conditions and just as important to be prepared.

Heat stress is when the body absorbs too much heat and loses the ability to dissipate it, either by sweating or by moving to a cooler environment.

An excessive increase in temperature can greatly impact our efficiency. Heat stress is serious and should not be taken lightly. Recognizing the importance of safety in these conditions is the first step to protecting yourself.

During the summer months, the Bioenvironmental Engineering Flight monitors the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature. This is the best indicator of heat stress exposure because it combines dry, wet, and radiant temperature readings.

Dry readings are what most thermometers measure; wet readings incorporate humidity; and radiant readings capture the solar load.

There are several ways you can obtain these readings:

·         Call 256-9382 for an automated recording; and

·         Follow the Scott Air Force Base Facebook page to receive notifications when the WBGT Category is “Red” or “Black.”

Supervisors should ensure their personnel understand the WBGT monitoring program, flag conditions, and preventive measures. Preventive measures include:

·         Wearing loose-fitting clothes;

·         Drinking plenty of water—as much as 1-1.5 quarts of water per hour may be needed during strenuous activities;

·         Avoiding alcohol and caffeinated beverages if engaged in strenuous activities;

·         Modifying work and activity schedules to perform the heaviest work during cooler parts of the day;

·         Being aware of heat injury symptoms and first aid for heat injuries; and

·         Acclimating when new to the area, especially when arriving from a cooler climate. Begin with a few minutes of outdoor exertion each day and gradually increase the amount of time spent in the heat. This could take up to one month depending on the individual.

For more information, please contact the Bioenvironmental Engineering Flight at 256-7307 or reference AFI 48-151, Thermal Injury, located on the AF e-pubs website.