JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-RANDOLPH, Texas –
The Air Force’s Summer Safety Campaign is winding down to its conclusion Labor Day weekend, but there are still plenty of opportunities for Airmen and their families to go out and enjoy the great outdoors before vacation ends and the school year begins.
No matter the outdoor activity – whether it’s camping or hiking, swimming or boating, jogging or playing team sports like softball, football and beach volleyball – some common sense goes a long way in ensuring a safe, healthy end of summer, said Marvin Joyce, 502nd Air Base Wing occupational safety and health specialist.
Staying hydrated and limiting sun and heat exposure are examples of sound judgment when taking part in outdoor activities, Joyce said.
“It’s critical to drink plenty of fluids when you’re taking part in outdoor activities; don’t wait until you get thirsty,” he said. “You should also limit your time exposed to the heat.”
Hydration is good for the body because it transports nutrients to the cells and removes toxins, Joyce said.
“It helps with blood circulation and maintaining the proper body temperature,” he said.
The consequences of dehydration and excessive heat exposure can be serious, from heat rash and heat cramps to heat exhaustion and heat stroke, Joyce said.
Heat stroke is a medical emergency requiring immediate attention, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Symptoms include a high body temperature, 103 degrees or higher; hot, red, dry or damp skin; a fast, strong pulse; a headache; a dizzy feeling; nausea; a feeling of confusion; and loss of consciousness.
Heat and strenuous activities are not the only things that can lead to dehydration, Joyce said.
“You should avoid or limit the use of alcoholic drinks or excessive amounts of caffeine because they are dehydrating,” he said.
For more strenuous outdoor activities, staying hydrated is just one precaution that should be taken, Joyce said.
“It’s wise to exercise early or late in the day – when the heat is less severe,” he said. “You should also wear light, breathable clothing and if you’re doing something that requires a protective helmet, you should take it off during rest periods so your head will cool off.”
The right clothing also plays an important role in preventing damage to the skin caused by ultraviolet radiation from the sun. Too much exposure over time can lead to skin cancers such as melanoma.
“Wearing a hat protects your head from the sun,” Joyce said. “Sunglasses protect your eyes, and clothing with an adequate sun protection factor protects your body.”
Sunscreen with the proper SPF offers protection to exposed skin, but should be reapplied often, depending on the circumstances, he said.