Roadskater Resources*
(* Formerly known as the Washington Area RollerSkaters)
Heat Safety
Be Aware!
Summers in DC are hot and humid and skating is a physically demanding exercise. Following is information from the U.S. Dept. of Labor /OSHA. Hydrate, and avoid pushing your limits on super hot days!
  CAUTION ZONE: 85 F to 95 F, 40-60% relative humidity
DANGER ZONE: 95 F and above, +60% relative humidity

When the body is unable to cool itself through sweating, serious heat illnesses may occur. The most severe heat-induced illnesses are heat exhaustion and heat stroke. If actions are not taken to treat heat exhaustion, the illness could progress to heat stroke and possible death.

HEAT EXHAUSTION:
WHAT HAPPENS TO THE BODY: Headaches, dizziness/light headedness, weakness, mood changes (irritability or confusion), nausea, vomiting, decreased and dark colored urine, fainting, and pale clammy skin.

WHAT SHOULD BE DONE:

  1. Move the person to a cool shaded area to rest. Don't leave the person alone. If the person is dizzy, lay them on their back and raise their legs about 6-8 inches. If the person is sick to their stomach, lay them on their side.
  2. Loosen and remove any heavy clothing.
  3. Have the person drink some cool water (small cup every 15 minutes)
  4. Try to cool the person by fanning them. Cool the skin with a cool spray mist of water or wet cloth.
  5. If the person does not feel better in a few minutes, call for help (ambulance or 911).

HEAT STROKE = A MEDICAL EMERGENCY!
WHAT HAPPENS TO THE BODY: Dry pale skin (no sweating), Hot red skin (looks like sunburn), mood changes (irritable, confusion, dementia), seizures/fits, and collapse/passes out (non-responsive).

WHAT SHOULD BE DONE:

  1. Call 911!
  2. Move the person to a cool shaded area. Don't leave them alone
Questions or Comments? Contact the WAR Webmaster.