Heat a factor in safe summer activities Published May 16, 2008 (6th Medical Group, Bioenvironmental Engineering Flight EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- It's almost summer and most people are primed for picnics, pools, beaches and barbecues. But whether on or off duty, everyone must remain on high alert to avoid heat stress. Heat stress is an increase in the body's internal heat level caused by working or exercising in a hot environment. Exposure to heat stress can result in reduced mental and physical performance, illness, permanent injury and even death. Everyone plays an important role in preventing heat injuries. All commanders, supervisors and workers should be familiar with the signs, symptoms, and first aid measures for heat injuries. Heat syncope: Passing out in formation or while immobile in the heat. Move victim to a cool area, recline and give cool water to drink slowly. Recovery will be prompt and complete. Heat cramps: Muscle cramps from excessive salt loss in stomach, arms, or legs. Move victim to a cool area, loosen clothing and give cool water to drink slowly. Remove clothing and apply wet cloths. Evacuate to medical facility. Heat exhaustion: Profuse sweating, headache, weakness and nausea. Skin cool and moist. Move victim to a cool area. Elevate their feet and give cool water to drink slowly. Remove clothing and apply wet cloths. Evacuate to medical facility. Heat stroke: High body temperature. Skin hot and dry. Extreme weakness, confusion or loss of consciousness. Heat stroke is a medical emergency. Call a medical facility first. Lower body temperature immediately. Remove clothing and immerse in water. Massage trunk and extremities. Bioenvironmental Engineering monitors the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT), from May 1 to Sept. 30 each year and measures and reports hourly heat stress readings. The WBGT is what the Air Force uses as the "heat index." The heat index is influenced by air temperature, radiant heat and humidity. It is also adjusted for the contributions of work demands, clothing and acclimatization. The heat index is posted at https://afkm.wpafb.af.mil/ASPs/CoP/OpenCoP.asp? and reported to the command post and base weather. Additionally, there is a flag system to indicate the level of heat stress. Commanders enforce activity levels for all personnel and ensure that everyone understands the WBGT monitoring program, health flags and preventive measures related to heat stress. Click here for the heat stress flag system. Supervisors should plan work and rest cycles and provide water at work sites. Everyone conducting outdoor activities on particularly hot days should obtain information concerning the WBGT and follow preventive measures as follows: · Wear loose-fitting clothes · Drink plenty of water (small amounts frequently throughout the day) · Avoid alcohol and caffeinated beverages if engaged in strenuous activities · Modify activity schedules to perform the heaviest work in the coolest parts of the day · Be aware of heat injury symptoms and first aid for heat injuries For more information, contact Staff Sgts. Benito Rios or Keith Watson at 883-8391 or 883-8013 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.