LANGLEY AFB, Va. -- Fun in the sun is what many look forward to during the summer months but as the temperatures rise, so does the risk for heat-related illnesses.
Heat-related illnesses can range from heat rash, heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Heat stroke is the most dangerous and requires immediate medical attention and can result in death.
Individuals begin to experience symptons when the body is unable to cool itself and the body temperature rises while working or playing in extreme heat. The Air Force refers to heat-related illness as thermal injury; reference AFI 91-203, 3.1.2.10 for information.
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports there are approximately 618 heat-related deaths each year in the United States; 68 percent of which are men, based on statistics from 1999-2010. Heat strokes accounts for approximately 300 deaths per year in the U.S. Heat causes more deaths annually than any other natural disaster such as, hurricanes, tornadoes, lighting, earthquakes and flooding combined.
Airmen and their families who work or spend a lot of leisure time outside in extreme heat conditions should know the signs and symptoms of heat-related illnesses.
This list can assist in learning the symptoms:
Heat Rash: skin irritation caused by excessive sweating during hot, humid weather.
Heat Cramps: muscle pain or spasms usually in the abdomen, arms or legs.
Heat Exhaustion: extreme fatigue, dizziness, nausea, clammy skin, fast and shallow breathing and elevated temperature.
Heat Stroke: hot or dry skin, chills, hallucinations, slurred speech, dizziness and throbbing headache.
Although knowing the signs of heat illnesses are important knowing how to prevent the illnesses are more important.
These are some ways to prevent heat illness:
· Drink water every 15 minutes, even if you're not thirsty.
· Avoid alcohol or liquids containing high amounts of sugar.
· Rest in the shade to cool down.
· Find an air-conditioned shelter.
· Avoid direct sunlight.
· Take cool showers or baths.
· Wear a hat and light-colored clothing.
· Learn the signs of heat illness and what to do in an emergency.
· Keep an eye on everyone with you.
Remember these three simple words: Water, Rest and Shade. Taking these precautions can mean the difference between life and death.
USAF. (U.S. Air Force Graphic by Rosario "Charo" Gutierrez)