COMMENTARY: Welcome to Summer - stay cool

  • Published
  • By Chief Master Sgt. Regina Buckhalter
  • 349th Medical Group Superintendent
TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  If you have not noticed, IT IS HOT!! This is just a reminder to make sure you are looking out for each other to remain cool and hydrated.

In a 2013 press release from the Center of Disease Control (CDC), it states, "No one should die from a heat wave, but every year on average, extreme heat causes 658 deaths in the United States--more than tornadoes, hurricanes, floods, and lightning combined." 

In the past few weeks, Northern California has experienced extreme heat conditions, which could affect everyone, to include elderly, children and pets.

Here are some very important tips from the cdc.gov website to ensure we are taking care of our Airman and families:

· Stay cool - Keep your body temperate cool to avoid heat-related illnesses
o Stay in air-conditioned buildings as much as possible
o Do not rely on a fan as your primary cooling device
o Avoid direct sunlight
o Wear lightweight, light colored clothing
o Take cool showers or baths

· Stay Hydrated - Because your body loses fluids through sweat, you can become dehydrated during times of extreme heat
o Drink more water than usual
o Don't wait until you are thirsty to drink more fluids
o Drink 2-4 cups of water every hour while working or exercising outside
o Avoid alcohol or liquids containing high amounts of sugar
o Remind others to drink enough water

· Stay Informed - Stay updated on local weather forecasts so you can plan activities safely when it is hot outside
o Check local news for extreme heat alerts and safety tips
o Learn the symptoms of heat illness
o Pay close attention to the base alert Public Announcement System on weather conditions

For more information on extreme heat, visit cdc.gov.  More importantly, be a good wingman and look out for the people around you.  If you see someone with signs of heat exhaustion or fatigue, make sure to remove them from the area to a cooler place.  It is everyone's job to look out for one another!  Have a safe summer.