Safety in the Outdoor Sciences Part 1: What to Look for.

Water Safety You are NOT a fish! You lost your gill slits 18 years ago! If you go under – – Do NOT panic! Simply work to regain your footing and then stand up!

Dressing for the Outdoor Lab DO Wear close-toed shoes Wear cotton or some other breathable fabric Wear comfortable, loose- fitting attire. Tie hair back Be weather –aware, and dress appropriately! DON’T Wear flip-flops Wear “skinny jeans” Wear excess jewelry

SYMPTOMS confusion dark-colored urine (which indicates dehydration) dizziness fainting fatigue headache muscle cramps nausea pale skin profuse sweating rapid heartbeat TREATMENT Drink plenty of water Remove any tight or unnecessary clothing. Take a cool shower. Apply fans or ice towels.

SYMPTOMS Shivering Clumsiness or lack of coordination Slurred speech or mumbling Stumbling Confusion or difficulty thinking Poor decision making, such as trying to remove warm clothes Drowsiness or very low energy Apathy or lack of concern about one's condition Progressive loss of consciousness Weak pulse Slow, shallow breathing TREATMENT Stop the exposure. Move the victim to warm, dry shelter. Remove wet clothing - leave dry clothing on victim. Wrap the victim with blankets. Warming blankets (like electric blankets) work the best.

Be AWARE… … of the class schedule ahead of time (look for boxed items on board) … of the weather conditions (heat index and wind chill are important factors!) … of the wildlife and plants around you … of what your classmates are doing! Watch each others backs!