Tyndall officials urge Airmen to exercise caution in summer heat

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Christopher Reel
  • 325th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
TYNDALL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  With the Florida Panhandle temperatures approaching triple digit numbers almost every day, base officials are urging Team Tyndall to take precautionary measures to avoid a heat stress injury while performing outdoor activities.

The 325th Aerospace Medicine bioenvironmental engineering flight provides wet bulb globe temperature readings to Team Tyndall every day, May 15 to September 15.  The wet bulb globe temperature is a different reading than the standard temperature gauge.

"It factors in humidity, solar load, and convective heat or heat reflected from surfaces to give a temperature that more closely reflects the heat stress load on the human body," said Maj. Steven Lange, 325th AMDS commander.

"Our office is comprised of nine personnel," Major Lange said. "And we take hourly readings when the wet bulb is 85 degrees Fahrenheit and above and bi-hourly readings when it is 84.9 F and below."

Each reading falls within a temperature range that corresponds to a unique flag color. The flag colors are white flag 78 F to 81.9 F, green flag 82 F to 84 F, yellow flag 85 F to 87.9 F, red flag 88 F to 89.9 F, and black flag 90 F and above.

"In turn, for each flag color, work and rest cycles and water consumption rates are recommended," added Major Lange.

"Remaining well hydrated is critical," said Michelle Gautreaux, 325th AMDS health and wellness dietitian. "To prevent dehydration and receive the benefits water can provide, such as helping the body break down fat for energy, a person should consume half of their body weight in ounces of water a day."

"Water should be the main fluid consumed; however, sports drinks may be used to replace carbohydrates and electrolytes when individuals experience prolonged heat exposure," she added. "When performing outdoor activities and exercise it is important to remember that the consumption of caffeinated beverages may actually dehydrate you faster."

Staying hydrated along with proper conditioning are key components for Airmen to be fit to fight.

"We must remain fit to fight, even during the summer months," said Robert Pagenkopf, 325th AMDS exercise physiologist. "Airmen should become accustomed to exercising in higher temperatures."

"It is important for Airmen to accumulate with Tyndall's environment," Pagenkopf said. "If an individual isn't conditioned to Florida's summer temperatures, the more the heat will have an effect on them. While conditioning for the heat and upcoming physical training tests, it is crucial to be cautious of the intensity of the workout and one's personal limits."

Tyndall officials recommend adding a warm-up and cool-down into one's workout program. In addition, it is important for individuals to stay hydrated and pay attention to flag conditions.

"Focus on indoor activities for training during black flag conditions," added Pagenkopf.
Training in high temperatures proposes an increased threat for heat illnesses and heat-related injuries.

"Regardless of flag condition, everyone should be alert for signs of potential heat illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke," Major Lange said.

Tyndall officials urge awareness of heat illness symptoms. Signs to look for are slow or irregular breathing, confusion, blue tinged skin, dizziness, loss of consciousness and vomiting. If one suspects heat stroke, seek immediate medical assistance.

For additional information on flag conditions and work and rest cycles visit: https://afkm.wpafb.af.mil/community/views/home.aspx?Filter=OO-SG-AE-11