The weather is beautiful. In fact, it is hot in large parts of Europe, sweltering hot and that will become much more common, experience of recent years has shown. And playing airsoft in high temperatures can entail some risks. Where the risk of overheating already lurks at lower temperatures, given the often sturdy protective clothing and gear such as thick plate carriers, the risks are much higher at the temperatures that we often have in the summers these days.
And let's face it, we feel pretty badass bouncing around the field in our gear but with one exception here and there, most of us are definitely not trained for a heavy load in high temperatures. After all, we're really not trained SOF operators (no really, we aren't). And even for them heat injury is a real risk.
To avoid any questions and/or comments, I am not a doctor and/or professional care provider. I only have limited knowledge of first aid.
But what are the risks of these high temperatures? There are a few. Of course there is sunburn so smear sunscreen, smear and smear again (did I mention you have to smear?). Next up is heat rash, you can find more info on that on https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/heat-rash/symptoms-causes/syc-20373276.
The biggest risk is overheating and heat stroke. Heat stroke occurs when your heart rate is high and your body temperature reaches 40 degrees Celsius or higher. This causes the brain to no longer function properly and there is a risk of brain damage. Spoiler alert, yes it can kill you.
The scary thing about heat stroke is that you can't feel it coming and you'll have it before you know it. Your fellow players can recognize the symptoms quite simply, but then it is actually too late. But better late than never i always say. Below you can see how to recognize heat stroke in a fellow player and what to do. Thanks to the Red Cross Netherlands.
What do you notice in a heat stroke?
1: The victim has a high body temperature (sometimes as high as 41°C or higher).
2: There is abnormal behaviour, headache, hallucinations, confusion, anxiety, chance of seizure (seizure).
3: The victim has red skin but does not sweat.
4: Fast heartbeat and difficult breathing.
5: Nausea, fatigue, feeling faint.
6: Possible loss of consciousness and unconsciousness.
These are the symptoms of heat stroke. Note that heat stroke cannot only occur at high temperatures. The risk is greater at the current temperatures, but is certainly also present in the cooler seasons.
What do you do in case of heat stroke? (in accordance with updated NREH 2021)
1: Call or have emergency services called if the victim becomes drowsy, confused, uncoordinated or has balance problems.
2: Always monitor vital signs and provide life-saving assistance if necessary.
3: Measure the temperature with an (ear) thermometer if possible.
4: Lay the victim down and rest in a cool environment.
5: Remove (as much) clothing from the victim.
6: Cool aggressively by using cloths soaked in water with ice (replace the cloths every 2 minutes), by placing cold packs in the neck, armpits, groin and possibly the back of the knees, in combination with wet cloths on the victim, spraying with cold water with a shower head or watering can or using a fan on wet skin.
And of course you immediately have a marshall from the organization check the situation. Most fields should have at least one or more first aid or emergency response officers on site.
But now how do you avoid all these nasty things. To start with common sense. Airsoft at temperatures above 30 degrees is, in my opinion, unwise to say the least. At least for people who are not well trained. If you want to play at any cost, remember this. Know your limits and don't push them. Stop when your body tells you it can't do it anymore. You are playing airsoft and not on a top secret mission in Afghanistan. And adapt your gear to the heat. I know a t-shirt and cargo shorts aren't ideal, but in these temperatures, full gear is asking for trouble. The Red Cross also has a number of good tips.
1: Don't start too fast and let your body get used to the heat.
2: Adjust your pace and listen to your body.
3: Keep drinking well.
4: Also drink large sips at a time, because with small sips the stomach is less well stimulated for digestion.
5: In addition to drinking well, food is also important. Make sure you get enough electrolytes and minerals.
6: Rest and get enough sleep in the days before the event. That's how you get off to a good start!
So much for this "scare" story. It's a bit "Doom and Gloom" but I hope it's helpfull . And for everyone who is going to play airsoft in the next few days stay safe and happy hunting!
More questions and/or comments about this post? Leave me a message.
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