Heat

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Heat, and how to deal with it while camping

(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 temprature 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

So while I'm on my soapbox, let's review the basics for Clinton War, An Tir/West War and any other time we may be running around at an event in fine weather.

Drink plenty of Fluids, Fluids, Fluids. Okay, so the Port-a-Potties stink, and you do not want to negotiate peeing in full armour (more an issue for girls than guys). BUT PEEING IS GOOD!! Alchomahol and fighting is BAD!! 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. We 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.

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

Find a shady place to hang out for a while before you become overheated.

Clinton War Site: Permission to sit and put your feet in the creek is granted, provided you're on the right side of the bridge. (Is that rule still in effect?)