Critical Days of Summer: Heat safety is everyone’s responsibility

The month of July marks the peak of the summer season. For Airmen at MacDill Air Force Base, Florida, it is also the time when the risk for heat related illness is at its height.

Heat related illness is the blanket term used to describe a range of conditions, including dehydration and heatstroke, which occurs when the body tries to regulate its internal temperature after heat exposure. 

Although heat related illness’ can affect anyone, MacDill service members are especially vulnerable due to Florida’s high humidity coupled with their active lifestyles. Under normal circumstances, sweat cools the body by evaporating off the skin. However, in humid environments, sweat cannot evaporate as quickly, making the body’s ability to cool itself less effective.

Master Sgt. Sean Felder, the ground safety manager assigned to the 6th Safety Office, cautions Airmen and their families to be cognizant of the heat index, or apparent heat, during periods of physical activity, the time when people are most prone to heat related illness.

 “People put themselves at risk because they don’t realize how humid it is,” said Felder “It may be 85 degrees, but the humidity makes it feel like 95 degrees. Most people don’t notice this difference until they’re well into physical activity.”

Staff Sgt. Travis Urquhart, a fitness specialist of the 6th Air Mobility Wing Force Support Squadron, explained that although outdoor activity and exercise increase during the summer, small changes to individual fitness routines can prevent heat related illness.

“During the summer, people should workout in the morning or late in the evening when it’s coolest,” said Urquhart.  “If you have to work out during the day, make sure you do it inside.”

For Master Sgt. John Norris, a network infrastructure NCO assigned to the Joint Communications Support Element, altering his fitness routine is one of many ways he combats the summertime heat.

“I like to do cardio outside, but during the summer I make sure to do it in the morning,” Norris said.

In addition to modifying his schedule, Norris explained he also protects himself from heat related illness by drinking plenty of water, a preventative measure that Felder explained is critical.

“The number one thing is hydration,” said Felder.  “When it’s hot, you’re sweating and losing water and putting yourself at risk for heat related illness.”

Felder emphasizes that water is the best way to stay hydrated.

“People like to drink coffee and energy drinks, but that does little for hydration,” explained Felder. “You have to drink water.”