Safety in the Outdoor Sciences

Part 1: What to Look for.

http://www.chelydra.org/common_alligator_snapping_turtle.html

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

Heat ExhaustionSYMPTOMSconfusiondark-colored urine (which indicates dehydration)dizzinessfaintingfatigueheadachemuscle crampsnauseapale skinprofuse sweatingrapid heartbeatTREATMENTDrink plenty of waterRemove any tight or unnecessary clothing.Take a cool shower.Apply fans or ice towels.

SYMPTOMSShivering 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 TREATMENTStop 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.

Hypothermia

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!