It's that time of year...summer!!! And let me tell you, out here in Texas, it is HOT. I'm sure many of you are experiencing the same heat. Here are a few tips to beat the heat:

1. Always, always, always drink water. Have a bottle or glass with you at all times. Stay hydrated both on and off the job.
2. Rehab early and rehab often. Sure you're a tough guy and you can take it but, trust me, it's not worth it to be tough. Take a break.
3. When you rehab, remove your bunker gear and sit in the shade or an air conditioned rig. At least invest in a misting fan. There are several different ones out there, ranging from an electric smoke ejector-type to a 5-gallon cooler with a misting fan on top.
4. Don't be shy: Ask a neighbor of the occupancy you're working at if they'll allow you to set up a rehab area in a garage. Most people will bend over backward to help out. They may even offer their facilities for personnel to use (if they do, be very respectful, no bunker gear in their house). We asked a neighbor to open their garage one time, and when they pulled out the car, they left. They were back 20 minutes later with a load of Gatorade and ice. Remember to send a card, flowers or something to say “Thank You” to that person for letting you use their house.
5. Be aware of your situation. Watch out for the signs and symptoms of heat stress. STOP what you're doing before any such symptoms progress too far. If the medics offer to hang a bag of fluids on you, take it. They're on the outside looking in and, therefore, they know best. I've yet to meet a medic who simply wants to waste their time and yours by starting an IV on you if you don't need it.