Safety Reminder

I am sure most of you have heard the news story about the guy who died at Bonaroo this week, of heat exposure. His core body temp was 108 degrees by the time the medics got to him.

With the tournament coming up this Saturday, or if you have any plans to be on the water between now and the Autumn cooling, be sure to drink as much water as you can stand. Avoid alcohol, carbonated drinks, etc. Electrolyte-based sports drinks are okay, but water is the key.

Don't want to go down that "TMI" road, but a simple and accurate indicator of whether you are getting enough water is urine color. Simply, if you are getting enough water, your urine will be clear. If not, DRINK!!!

Keep a close eye on those around you (and ask them to keep an eye on you). Signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion include: heavy sweating, paleness, muscle cramps, weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea, vomiting, and fainting. Failure to recognize these symptoms and seek immediate medical attention can result in the condition worsening to the point of heat stroke and even death.

If these symptoms present, call 911 immediately, get the victim into the shade as soon as possible, and attempt to cool their core body temp... loosen any restrictive clothing (i.e. - unbutton pants, remove shoes, etc.), and place cool compresses on either side of the neck (dip fishing towels, shirts, etc. in your cooler). The compresses will cool the blood as it passes through the arteries in the neck. Give water ONLY if the victim can sit up and actively participate in taking the water. If the victim is in a reduced state of consciousness, they can aspirate the water that is being given, which leads to a whole other set of complications.

Keep cool, keep hydrated, and keep an eye on your buddy!!!!!!!

thanks that is a great post and alot of people including myself don't think about how much water you should take on hot days ,but it don't hurt to carry more just in case.

Great post Speck!

Also don't forget the sun screen. Wear sunglasses and a wide brim hat as additional protection. Cover up!!!! You don't want sunburned hands either. Trust me.