Plebes from the U.S. Naval Academy carry their canteens while performing physical exercises during the summer season. Water intake is monitored daily to maintain hydration and avoid heat injury. U.S. Navy photo by Gin Kai

The importance of heat safety is constantly stressed to the class of 2014, who arrived recently and are currently participating in a wide variety of physically demanding activities designed to transition them to life as a midshipmen.

To help reduce heat-related injuries, the ambient conditions are monitored daily with the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) meter. The WBGT is used to determine the heat index or what it actually feels like outside.

WGBT readings must be taken in an un-shaded area, taken with clean equipment, using appropriate materials and recorded consistently in a heat log. The meter reflects four variables of ambient heat stress, such as temperature, radiant heat and air circulation.

‘‘To ensure consistent and reliable outdoor heat stress monitoring, the Naval Health Clinic Annapolis located at Hospital Point, monitors WBGT index readings for the Naval Academy Complex throughout the stress season,” said Plebe Summer safety officer Lt. Geoffrey Avery.

Once that temperature is calculated, the color-coded heat condition flag warning system is used as a guide for physical training and for those working outside. The absence of a flag indicates normal conditions, a green or yellow flag indicates cautionary measures, while a red or black flag indicates danger or extreme danger.

‘‘We encourage everyone to become familiar with the flag system,” said Avery. ‘‘Whenever there is a change with the flags, anyone should be able to understand and comply with the regulations on that particular condition.”

Throughout the summer, plebes are frequently monitored by safety observers, first class midshipman detailers, chain of command and squad leaders for signs of heat exhaustion, heat cramps and heat stroke. If any of these conditions are identified, the person will take an immediate training time out.

‘‘Detailers monitor the plebes’ water intake daily and ensure that the risks of poor hydration are understood. Plebes carry canteens to maintain hydration, and water is available on the weapons range,” said Avery.

Safety and operational risk management, founded upon Fleet standards, are essential elements built in to the academy’s standard operational procedures in regards to heat stress and how midshipmen are trained. The academy allows a 21-day time period for the plebes to get adjusted to the new climate. During these three weeks, outdoor activities are subject to change at any time due to the weather.

‘‘This period of climate adjustment is very important for them,” Avery added. ‘‘We have people from all over the nation and we understand that not everyone is used to the Annapolis weather.”

Avery recommended drinking plenty of water, getting proper rest, having a well-balanced diet, keeping cool in an air-conditioned environment when possible, and wearing lightweight clothing and sunscreen to avoid heat-related injuries.