Heat

Heat and Heat Exhaustion are major issues which can occur at SCA events.

(Based on a posting to the North Road by Kifah al Sagheera Bint al Bahr-e Mohit formerly known as Sasha. Used with permission.)

Heat Stroke vs Heat Exhaustion

Heat stroke (or Hyperthermia as opposed to Hypothermia) occurs when the body's mechanism for heat dissipation fails. Core body temperature rises to 41 C or above and cells of the brain, kidney, heart die and organs fail.

When most people refer to Heat Stroke, they're really talking about Heat Exhaustion. The signs and symptoms of Heat Exhaustion are:

• Shallow and increased respiration
• Weak rapid pulse
• Cool, pale, clammy skin
• Sweating
• Headache, nausea, weakness, fatigue, fainting, muscle cramps

If sweating stops, this is an important sign that things are beginning to approach the "Heat Stroke" phase.

Dealing with Heat

Fluids

Drink plenty of Fluids, Fluids, and more Fluids. The Port-a-Potties may stink, and you may not want to negotiate peeing in full armour (more an issue for girls than guys), but PEEING IS GOOD!! While at the same time alcohol and fighting are a bad combination. Drinking alcohol the night before fighting is your own business, but chugging down on water and Gatorade the next morning is a great way to recover and start the day. Some people buy a flat of Gatorade from Costco before the war and freeze it.

Hats

Keeping your head and face covered, will help keep you cool.

Clothing

Wear appropriate clothing. While a layered wool tunic look is good for the evening, try for something light and airy during the day. Cotton and linen are good.

Common Sense

Find a shady place to hang out for a while before you become overheated.
Ask about shade at events, if there is a creek on site ask if you can put your feet in it; the answer is often yes.