By: Capt.Woody Gore
Know the signs of heat exhaustion: unconsciousness, seizures, difficulty breathing, confusion, vomiting and diarrhea, rapid heartbeat, and hot, dry flushed skin without sweating.
These are all symptoms of one of the most common problems facing boaters and anglers during the summer. If you, or someone close to you exhibits, any of these symptoms take immediate action.
Cooling and rehydration are the cornerstones for treating heat exhaustion. The affected individual should stop their activity and try to move to a cooler environment. The person may be placed in the shade or, if in a boat, it can be started and driven to create a breeze. Clothes may be removed to help with air circulation across the body. Misting the skin with cool water also helps by stimulating evaporation and cooling the body.
Rehydration is the next important step in treating heat exhaustion. This may be a challenge if the person begins to suffer from nausea and vomiting. Small sips of water, a mouthful at a time, might be tolerated even if some vomiting persists. Water, sports drink and other electrolyte replacement drinks are reasonable options.
Keep in mind these hot days can really dehydrate your body, often to the danger point before you realize what is happening. Most heat-related illnesses are preventable by keeping the body cool and avoiding dehydration. So, remember to drink plenty of fluids like water and sports drinks to re- hydrate the body.
However, considering fluids containing alcohol impair your decision making process it also imposes safety issues to yourself and others. If you drink, do it responsibly. Operating your watercraft and drinking alcohol equates to trouble. BUI or Boating under the influence carries stiff fines, confinement or both.