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"Beat The Heat" Safely While Boating This Summer
Sunday, August 01, 2010
 PITTSBURGH, PA -- The United States Coast Guard and Coast Guard Auxiliary remind boaters to stay cool and safe while on the water during these Dog Days of Summer. Remember the followng tips:
Stay well-hydrated and wear sunscreen. Approximately 30 minutes before you leave for your day in the sun, be sure to consume two to three glasses of water, and apply sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15. Maintain your hydration by continuing to drink four to eight ounces every 30 to 60 minutes, and re-apply sunscreen every two hours or as needed.
Limit your caffeine and alcohol intake. Both alcohol and caffeine can dehydrate the body, making it more susceptible to heat exhaustion and heat stroke, which can be deadly. Have an alcohol-free "designated driver" to captain your boat. If you do drink alcohol or caffeine as a passenger, take in an additional eight ounces of water for every eight ounces of alcohol or caffeinated beverage you consume. In addition, alcohol causes a decreased sense of balance and depth perception; factors which are crucial, especially in crowded boat launch ramps and marinas. When your balance and depth perception are impaired, studies indicate that you are ten times more likely to fall overboard!
Carry a First-Aid kit with you and on board your boat. The motto of the U.S. Coast Guard is Semper Paratus, which means "Always Prepared." Be sure to carry the essentials (like bandages, gauze, and tape), including rubber gloves, to help the person giving aid avoid exposure to blood-borne pathogens. Bring along a basic First-Aid book, and be familiar with procedures to initiate the Emergency Medical System (EMS) in the area you’ll be boating or swimming in.
The Coast Guard Auxliiary is the civilian volunteer arm of the United States Coast Guard. It supports the Coast Guard in its missions, except for military and direct law enforcement.
Submitted by:
U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary
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