Safety tips to help keep Team Buckley safe this summer Published June 28, 2013 By Airman 1st Class Darryl Bolden, Jr. 460th Space Wing Public Affairs BUCKLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. -- The summer has brought peak temperatures and cause for summer safety tips. The Air Force Critical Days of Summer campaign promotes all Airmen and their families stay aware of summer hazards. "The safety office has high-risk activity worksheets and briefings that individuals can attend," said Stephen McMillan, 460th Space Wing Safety Office. "We also provide safety tip briefings on several types of activities and ways to prevent critical injuries such as sunburn and dehydration." When outside, people should ensure they're staying safe in the heat. Recognizing signs of heatstroke are very important as they may be life threatening. According to the Mayo Clinic, signs include the following: · Rapid heartbeat · Rapid and shallow breathing · Elevated or lowered blood pressure · Cessation of sweating due to dehydration · Irritability, confusion or unconsciousness · Feeling dizzy or lightheaded · Headache · Nausea · Fainting, which may be the first sign for older adults If someone is suspected of having a heatstroke, the Mayo Clinic recommends taking the following actions: · Move the person out of the sun and into a shady or air-conditioned space. · Call 911 for emergency help. · Cool the person by covering him or her with damp sheets or by spraying with cool water. Direct air onto the person with a fan or newspaper. · Have the person drink cold water or another nonalcoholic beverage without caffeine, if he or she is able. According to Gregory Walker, 460 SW Safety Office, the wingman concept is now more important than ever to ensure everyone enjoys the summer in the safest way possible. The goal is to stay safe during summer months. Here are some other tips to ensure a safe summer: · Apply sun block when outside and reapply periodically when in or out of the water. · Read owner manuals for grills, lawn mowers, weed eaters and other machinery. · Ensure supervision of children around water; analyze the depths or hazards in the area. · For campfires, ensure the surrounding area is damp to prevent forest fires. Search for signs or check the news for no-fire orders or fire restrictions. Ensure fire is completely out before leaving it unattended. · Become familiar with the surrounding areas for wild animals, poisonous plants and snakes. · Make sure to drink plenty of water and stay hydrated. Contact the 460 SW Safety Office at 720-847-7233 for questions or further information.