Work/Rest Water Consumption Table Applies to average sized, heat acclimated Soldier wearing BDU, hot weather The school year has ended and trips to the pool mark the beginning of summer. With summer comes an increase in temperatures, which poses a heat injury risk to individuals. However, there are steps that can be taken to help reduce the likelihood of heat injury. Elderly persons, small children, Soldiers, those on certain medications or drugs (especially tranquilizers and anticholinergics), and persons with weight and alcohol problems are particularly susceptible to heat reactions, especially during heat waves in areas where a moderate climate usually prevails.

Simple measures include:

·Wear light-colored, loosefitting, breathable clothing such as cotton

·If you must work outdoors, gradually build up to heavy work

·Schedule heavy work during the coolest parts of day.

·Take more breaks in extreme heat and humidity.

·Take breaks in the shade or a cool area when possible

Brig. Gen. Donald Bradshaw Commanding General DDEAMC ·Drink water frequently. Drink enough water that you never become thirsty and avoid dehydration.

·Hourly fluid intake should not exceed 1½ quarts and daily intake should not exceed 12 quarts to prevent overhydration, which leads to water intoxication.

·Avoid drinks with caffeine, alcohol, and large amounts of sugar.

·Be aware that protective clothing or personal protective equipment may increase the risk of heat stress.

·Avoid overexposure to the sun, it can take that much longer for the body to cool down.

In addition to the preventive measures above, certain signs and symptoms should be monitored for as early detection helps in prevention.

Sunburn symptoms include redness and pain to the affected area. In severe cases, swelling of the skin, blisters, fever, and headaches occur. First aid consists of ointments for mild cases if blisters appear and leaving blisters intact. If blisters break, apply a dry, sterile dressing. For serious, extensive cases, an appointment with the physician should be sought.

Heat cramps symptoms include painful spasms usually in the muscles of the legs and abdomen with heavy sweating. First aid includes putting pressure on the cramping muscle(s) and/or applying gentle massage to relieve spasms and giving sips of water. If nausea occurs, stop providing water.

Heat exhaustion symptoms include heavy sweating, weakness, a thread pulse, and skin that is cold, pale, and clammy. A normal temperature is possible. First aid includes getting the victim out of the sun; applying cool, wet cloths; fanning or moving the victim to an air conditioned room; and giving sips of water. If nausea occurs, stop providing water. If vomiting continues, seek immediate medical attention.

Heat stroke (i.e. sun stroke) symptoms include a high body temperature (106° F or higher), hot dry skin, rapid and strong pulse, and possible unconsciousness. Heat stroke is a SEVERE medical EMERGENCY. Summon medical assistance or get the victim to a hospital immediately. Delay can be FATAL. First aid should be administered with caution and includes moving the victim to a cooler environment; reducing body temperature with a cold bath or sponging; removing clothing; and using fans and air conditions to lower body temperature. If the individual's body temperature rises again, repeat the process. Do NOT give fluids. Persons on a sodium restrictive diet should consult a physician before increasing their sodium intake.

DDEAMC Calendar of events

Monthly

Observances Sun Protection Month

Vision Research

Month

Fireworks Safety

Month Home Safety Month

Closed for 4th of

July Holiday

Observance

July 3

SERMC/DDEAMC Change of Command

July 17 8 a.m., Barton Field

School Screening

Clinics:

July 18 and 25,

August 1

First time Georgia students, must be eligible for care at DDEAMC and in the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting Systems. Call (706) 787- 7300, M-F 7 a.m.-5:30 p.m., to schedule an appointment or for more information.

To submit questions or suggest article topics, e-mail ikeshealthnet@amedd.army.mil