An official website of the United States government
A .mil website belongs to an official U.S. Department of Defense organization in the United States.
A lock (lock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .mil website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

Cool Tips for Beating the Heat

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Jeff Kelly
  • 315th AW public affairs
Charleston Air Force Base, S.C. --  The heat index reached nearly 120 degrees in the Charleston, S.C. area this week, and forecasts predict that the scorching heat is here to stay. Sweat-soaked uniforms and sun-battered Airmen are a common sight around the base this time of year, but as temperatures approach record levels here this summer, straightforward safety procedures and watchful wingmen need to be just as common.

"Heat stroke is when you body has depleted itself of water and salt, and it can be deadly," said Master Sergeant Chris Delp, 315th Airlift Wing ground safety manager. "The combination of high temperatures and humidity is not to be taken lightly."

When temperatures are as high as they have been this week, heat stress becomes a very real problem; and at least one Reservist from the 315th AW has experienced a heat related emergency this summer.

"All the airman had to eat that morning was a protein shake, and the airman had done push-ups and sit-ups in the heat prior to performing the fitness 1.5 mile run," said Master Sgt. Delp. "I'm sure they were dehydrated."

Master Sgt. Delp suggests following these guidelines while working in the heat:

· Exercise early in the morning or after the sun goes down in the evening when the heat is not as intense outside, or move your exercise routine indoors during the summer months.

· Do not wait until you are thirsty to drink water, by that time you have lost 20-25% of endurance and strength and more than likely you will already be dehydrated.

· Drink plenty of water, and stay away from caffeine and soda.

· Go to the globemaster web page and check the heat index before you go to work outside and remember to adhere to established work rest cycles.

· Take a break if you notice a headache or start to feel overheated.

· Get enough sleep and keep an eye on your fellow wingmen.

These guiding principles may seem like routine behaviors for some, but if everyone followed them, the number of heat related casualties could be reduced to zero.

"At least remember to drink lots of liquids, and if you are feeling overheated take a break," said Master Sgt. Delp. "We need to prevent future mishaps, not create mishaps."