While the summer months are usually spent lounging around the beach or just generally enjoying the Georgia sun or cooling summer showers, for many Fort Stewart and Hunter Army Airfield Soldiers, it means time for annual field training exercises as well.
TIP#1: Watch out for sun exposure
Sun burns can be painful and lead to serious long-term problems such as skin cancer. Hygiene is also a concern in the field, as poor hygiene can lead to infection.
"Wearing sunscreen is not an option when you are out in the field. Even with cloud coverage sunburns are still a very serious concern; and avoid overexposure to the sun when possible," said Sgt. Carlos Vasquez, combat medic, 2/3 Brigade Troops Battalion, 2nd Heavy Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division.
TIP#2: Water, water, water
Keeping yourself well hydrated is key to keeping yourself healthy in the field. As the summer temperatures rise, the danger of heat exhaustion becomes even more predominant. However, while keeping the inside of your body well hydrated, keeping the outside as dry as possible is just as important.
"There is no excuse for not having some form of hydration on you in the field; you should drink about 5 to 6 liters a day, especially in the warm summer months," said Spc. David Perez, combat medic, 2/3 BTB, 2nd HBCT. "Also, there is the concern of keeping your body away from the water and moisture as much as possible; this means changing clothes and especially socks often. This wards off infection and bacteria from forming on your body."
TIP#3: Lightning and thunder. OH, MY!
As rapid climate changes begin in the South during the summer months, large thunder and lightning storms can occur. With limited cover during these storms, there are a few precautions you can take to remain safe while out in the field.
"Injuries from lighting storms are quite dangerous and life threatening; so remain somewhere clear of high wires and shut down any electrical equipment possible to lower the chance of any incident," said Pfc. Monique Mark-Gary, combat medic, 2/3 BTB, 2nd HBCT.
Hopefully, everyone will be able to stay safe this summer during field exercises, so we can all come home together and enjoy that lovely beach weather safely.
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