Travel Training: Working Within Difficult Weather Conditions November 16, 2016

Welcome & Introductions Pam Canavan Florida Travel Trainer Tammie Moore Wisconsin Travel Trainer Use the chat function on WebEx or email rbernardy@mtm-inc.net to ask questions!

Overview Training in difficult climates and weather systems Medical conditions and medications that may be impacted by weather issues Working with transit agencies’ closure policies Tips are applicable any location at any time- southern states might take winter tips to heart not having much experience with them, and northern states with the heat

Hurdles of Cold Weather Frost bite: the freezing of body tissue decreased blood flow to extremities comes in four stages, ranging from skin color change and itching to the loss of toes and fingers Hypothermia: the decrease of body temperature starts when body temperature drops to or below 95° can lead to body systems shutting down

Hurdles of Cold Weather Wind Chill Factor: the wind causes the temperature to feel colder makes the actual temperature lower may cause hypothermia and frost bite to set in faster Snow even a dusting can be dangerous it is best to stay inside until sidewalks and roads are clear

Conditions Affected by the Cold COPD Diabetes Cardiac complications Individuals with spinal cord injuries Autoimmune diseases All types of arthritis Asthma

Tips for Winter Travels Schedule appointments for the afternoon sidewalks may be clearer and the temperature warmer Check for weather updates and any bus delays Wear loose fitting, layered clothing Be aware of ice on sidewalks Knowing what could happen will help us prepare us so nothing will happen. *Dress appropriately: Winter coat, warm hat, gloves, scarf, socks, boots. Snow pants if needed. * Cover as much skin as possible if it is very cold and if there is a wind chill factor added in. *Some don’t realize that you loose 90% of your body heat from your head.

Battling the Heat Heat exhaustion: occurs with extreme dehydration causes a fever up to 104 degrees, nausea, fainting, etc. Heat stroke: a medical emergency, occurs when heat exhaustion is left untreated body temperature rises above 104 degrees individual may enter an altered mental state seizures are possible at this level More heat exhaustion symptoms: cool/clammy skin, muscle aches (precursor to heat exhaustion may be heat cramps), heavy sweating, slow heartbeat, and dizziness

Treating Heat Exhaustion If someone experiences heat exhaustion/stroke during training: find the coolest location available provide fluids- don’t be picky cool trainee with cold water On giving fluids: even soda will help (the hydrating properties outweigh its diuretic properties)

Preventing Dehydration Drink plenty of water Give trainees plenty of time to get to their bus stop Stay in the shade as much as possible Look for opportunities to step into local businesses

Conditions Affected by Heat Previous heart attack /failure High blood pressure High cholesterol Menopause Stroke/Parkinson’s/Alzheimer’s/Diabetes Asthma Individuals with spinal cord injuries Some medical conditions can be made worse by extreme heat and humidity; others can lead to dehydration Previous heart attack /failure can keep heart from pumping blood efficiently High blood pressure can cause dizziness High cholesterol can limit blood flow to skin Menopause can cause hot flashes that can cause light-headedness and fainting Stroke/Parkinson’s/Alzheimer’s/Diabetes can dull the brain’s response to thirst signals Asthma can cause shortness of breath

Potentially Problematic Medications Diuretics (water pills) Antihistamines and antidepressants Antibiotics /medications for acne Anti-psychotics Diuretics (water pills) can increase dehydration Some antihistamines and antidepressants can block sweating and make it harder for the body to cool Individuals taking antibiotics /medications for acne should not be out in the sun at all Anti-psychotics can cause trouble with heat regulation

Lightning Safety When a thunderstorm approaches, seek shelter: Lightning can strike from up to 10 miles away 54% of lightning strikes occur in a large, open space Stay on a bus if you cannot exit safely Without shelter: crouch down, grab your ankles, and tuck your head It’s a myth that you “attract” lightning if you have a metal object (umbrella, golf club, etc.) Stand under any object you can besides a tall, isolated one

Tips for Traveling in Warm Weather Travel train early in the morning or after 4pm If you train during the hotter parts of the day: wear light colored, loose fitting clothes wear a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen carry water and an umbrella

Transit Agency Closures Transit agencies may close during inclement weather conditions: Wind: 35mph or higher Snow: mostly delays/detours Flooding: closures occur rapidly; be aware of your agency’s policies

Pam Canavan pcanavan@mtm-inc.net Tammie Moore tjmoore@mtm-inc.net Questions? Pam Canavan pcanavan@mtm-inc.net Tammie Moore tjmoore@mtm-inc.net