Stay safe during sizzling summer Published July 13, 2012 By Staff Sgt. Carrie M. Peasinger 931st Public Affairs MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. -- It's hot, humid and the weekend has just begun ... what better to do then head outside for some summer fun? With the warmer weather and school being out, summer is a time of increased participation in outdoor activities. Unfortunately, it's also historically the time of year when the Air Force experiences disproportionately more mishaps and fatalities off duty, according to the Air Force Safety Center website. To make the most of the season, it's best to stay safe and know the signs of heat illnesses. "Everyone is susceptible to heat illness, however, we're most vulnerable in the United States during the summer months. Therefore, taking the proper precaution is vital," said Master Sgt. Felicia Sanders, the 931st Air Refueling Group ground safety manager. According to The Kansas Department of Health and Environment website some preventative measures you can take are: -Spend more time indoors, if a home is not air-conditioned, spend time in public facilities that are air-conditioned -Drink plenty of water. Drink water even if you are not thirsty -Avoid caffeinated and alcoholic beverages -Wear loose light colored clothing and sunscreen -Schedule outdoor activities carefully; try to schedule activities early in the day or later in the evening -Limit outdoor activities; take frequent breaks to cool off -Monitor people at high risk (elderly, children, pets, etc.) -Eat light meals "The two most common types of heat illnesses are heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Heat exhaustion occurs when you're exposed to high temperatures and the body can't cool itself sufficiently. Heat stroke occurs after you've reached the point of heat exhaustion. Your body is unable to cool down, your core body temperature rises, and this can cause damage to your internal organs," said Staff Sgt. Samantha Reed, 931st Aeromedical Squadron. Reed said, If you find yourself displaying any of the following signs of heat exhaustion it's important to treat them immediately. Warning signs of heat exhaustion include the following: -Heavy sweating -Paleness -Muscle cramps -Tiredness -Weakness -Dizziness -Headache -Nausea or vomiting "If someone does display these signs, seek medical attention immediately. Move the person to a cooler area and remove the outer clothing. Have them lie down with feet elevated if possible. Place a cool compress on the person's head or behind the neck, and provide cool drinking water," said Reed. "When out in the heat, supervisors and workers both must monitor all personnel and approach the work itself with caution. It's important to get acclimated to the heat first, drink plenty of water and take frequent breaks. Taking preventive measures is the key to avoiding heat illness. We're in the middle of the Critical Days of Summer and it's important we are able to take appropriate action to prevent potential illness and mishaps while enjoying the season," said Sanders. To receive regular updates from the 931st Air Refueling Group, please visit our website or follow us on Facebook.