By Scott Harvey
Commerce – The relentless heat is prompting university officials at A&M-Commerce to remind faculty and staff of the potential dangers.
According to Safety Manager Derek Preas, heat exhaustion could occur by simply walking across campus. He says it's important to allow yourself to adjust to the environment both physically and mentally.
"A person generally in 10-15 minutes could lose up to a half a gallon of water, so adjust ourselves to the environment." Preas says. "So if we know we're about to go outside prepare for that, mentally prepare for that. That does a great amount for prevention for ourselves as an individual."
Officials have been utilizing the university list serves for faculty, staff and students to inform them of material concerning heat-related injury and illness prevention. They're also communicating directly with faculty whose students tend to be outside during this time. Incoming freshmen and returning students this fall will notice of several health reminders posted inside and on boards outside.
Preas reminds everyone to drink plenty of water during this time, and to wear appropriate clothing such as lighter colored and less restrictive material. He says when students move in later this month, the university will be making a big effort to supply water to incoming students and to those who are helping them move.
The university family is encouraged to become familiar with the signs of heat-related illness, so that you can not only better identify your own symptoms but that of others.
The Department of Risk Management has several tips at http://web.tamu-commerce.edu/facultyStaffServices/riskManagementSafety/emergencyManagement.aspx