WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio -- Summer is right around the corner and it is time for the annual “101 Critical Days of Summer” safety campaign. Summer is the longest vacation period of the year, and mishaps, as well as associated fatalities, have historically spiked during this time. It is crucial for everyone to maintain an active risk management mindset and ensure this summer is a safe one. This year, the 101 Critical Days of Summer campaign runs from May 30 through Sept. 5.
The majority of off-duty, recreational mishaps are entirely preventable. These mishaps can be avoided if service members perform a reasonable risk assessment and comply with laws, procedures or recommended best practices when engaging in any activity.
Safety outdoors
1. Hydrate. Hydrate. Hydrate.
2. Always carry water with you and drink frequently.
3. If you feel thirsty, you are already dehydrated.
4. Always wear sunscreen outside and frequently reapply.
5. Know your own limits when it comes to activity.
6. Watch for signs of heat strain and heat stroke. These include: Painful muscle spasms usually in the legs or abdomen, no sweating, goosebumps, headache, clamminess, pale skin, dizziness or disorientation
7. Try to stay out of the sun when it is at its height, especially between the hours of noon and 3 p.m.
8. If bugs are a problem, use a bug spray made with DEET or a naturally derived product. Mosquitoes can cause Zika and West Nile infection and disease
9. If ticks are a problem, wear long pants and long sleeves and use bug spray
10. Check for ticks when you remove your clothes. Ticks can cause a number of diseases, and deer ticks, which cause Lyme disease, are tiny.
11. If you find a circular red spot like a bullseye on your skin after being outdoors, you may have been exposed to deer ticks. Check with your health care provider as soon as possible.