2020 SUMMER SAFETY BRIEF

Summer temperatures are on the rise, start thinking about limiting your time in the sun between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when the sun and humidity are at their highest and know the different heat stress/flag conditions.

**You may obtain current flag conditions by calling the NEPMU-5 Quarterdeck at 556-7070 or 556-7083

(Please disseminate at weekly safety meetings and post to all safety bulletin boards)

**IMPORTANT**   NEVER leave your children or pets in a hot vehicle.  Car temperatures can reach nearly 100 degrees within 10 minutes and 123 degrees in an hour.

HEAT CONDITION AND FLAG WARNING SYSTEM

**In case you wondered how wet bulb temperatures are arrived at.      *** IT IS NOT THE TEMPERATURE ON A NORMAL THERMOMETER***

Wet Bulb Temperature - WBT

The Wet Bulb temperature is the temperature of adiabatic saturation. This is the temperature indicated by a moistened thermometer bulb exposed to the airflow.

Wet Bulb temperature can be measured by using a thermometer with the bulb wrapped in wet muslin. The adiabatic evaporation of water from the thermometer and the cooling effect is indicated by a "wet bulb temperature" lower than the "dry bulb temperature" in the air.  The rate of evaporation from the wet bandage on the bulb, and the temperature difference between the dry bulb and wet bulb, depends on the humidity of the air. The evaporation is reduced when the air contains more water vapor. The wet bulb temperature is always lower than the dry bulb temperature but will be identical with 100% relative humidity (the air is at the saturation line).

Green  Flag (or no flag) (WBGTI of 80 to 8 4.9 degrees F)

Heavy exercises, for non-acclimatized personnel, will be conducted with caution and under constant supervision. Individuals in charge of unit physical training or work details should monitor the WBGT Index

periodically throughout the day, as changes are likely.

Yellow Flag (WBGTI of 85 to 8 7.9 degrees F)

Strenuous exercises or physical labor will be curtailed for non-acclimatized; in order to participate in physical training or strenuous exercise, personnel must have been in the immediate geographical area for

greater than four weeks.

Red Flag (WBGTI of 88 to 89 degrees F)

All PT or very strenuous work will be curtailed for "WJ those not thoroughly acclimatized by at least 3 weeks. Personnel not thoroughly acclimatized may carry on limited activity not to exceed 6 hours per day.

Black Flag (WBGTI of 90 and above degrees F)

All nonessential physical activity will be halted.

Flag conditions are displayed at the following locations: 

- NBSD Commanding Officer Bldg 72

- Harbor Side Gym Bldg 3477

- Admiral Prout Gym Bldg 3279

- Admiral Baker Golf Course Club House Bldg 3604

- Muscles Gym Bldg 1 Broadway Complex

- Balboa Complex Bldg 12.

Suggestions for staying cool:

- Wear lightweight/light-colored clothing to reflect sunlight and keep your skin cool.

- Slather on the sunscreen, even under your clothes. (Loose garments will keep you cooler)

- Take regular breaks. Find a shaded place and check your heart rate to make sure it is not racing.

- Create your own shade by using an umbrella or hat.

- Don't: Be cavalier about the heat. If you are experiencing dizziness, weakness or other symptoms, Heat exhaustion can rapidly progress to heat stroke, which requires emergency medical attention.

Hydration:

So, how much water should you be drinking to beat the heat? "Avoid the sensation of thirst,"  "By the time you feel thirsty, your body is already started dehydrating." 

- Drink water before and during any outdoor activity or workout  

- Replenish fluids hourly throughout the day.

- Don't: Drink caffeinated products or alcohol as they can cause dehydration.

- Don't: Drink sugary beverages as they can cause cramping.

Know the Warning Signs:

Warning signs for heat exhaustion - the less serious of the two-include headaches, moist and pale skin, dizziness, weakness, nausea and low-grade fever. Heat stroke happens when the body temperature rises above 105 degrees and requires immediate medical attention. Even with a trip to the emergency room, heat stroke can kill.

Heat Illness