As we write this, today’s “Feels Like” temperature is predicted to be 104° F. Historically, mid-August has been the hottest time of the year. And with this heat comes risk factors that aren’t as prevalent during colder months.
We are talking, of course, about heat exhaustion, heat stroke and related illnesses. If you are unfamiliar with these, you can learn more on Wikipedia. Heat stroke or hyperthermia is the most serious of these as it can cause the body to lose its ability to regulate temperature. Heat stroke is potentially fatal.
Fortunately, there is no reason to let the heat spoil your fun. There are steps you can take to not only minimize risk but also enhance your enjoyment. We’ll look at these here.
Make it the last thing you do
Ironically, donning your wetsuit before doing anything else can be a good idea in the dead of winter. Neoprene foam is an excellent insulator. Wearing a dry wetsuit out of the water can help your body maintain its core temperature. This will help keep you warmer underwater.
However, this time of year, the reverse is true. Donning your wetsuit should be the last thing you do before entering. Performing tasks or simply standing around in a dry wetsuit can significantly increase your risk of heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
Assemble your scuba gear, discuss your dive plan and perform all other pre-dive tasks before donning your suit. Once your suit is on, you will want to get in the water as quickly as possible.
Take your gear to the deck beforehand
Carrying a scuba unit on your back requires exertion. Doing this on a hot day while wearing a wetsuit can cause your core temperature to skyrocket.
Consider taking your gear down to the water before you don your wetsuit. We have ample space on our large deck where you can leave your scuba unit. Then, after putting on your wetsuit, you can return and don it just before entering the water.
Take a dip
If you find you’ve donned your wetsuit prematurely, you may be able to rectify the situation merely by getting in the water wearing just your wetsuit. Do this long enough for the water to get inside your suit. This can do two things:
- Simply being in the water will generally help lower your core temperature.
- If there is even the slightest breeze out of the water after you exit the water, water will begin to evaporate from the surface of your wetsuit. This can make your suit more comfortable — and safer — to wear.
It’s all about having fun
As we said earlier, summer heat should not deter you from having fun. Using common sense will not only help you stay cool and comfortable, but it will also help reduce the risk of heat-related illness.
Remember also how good the sun will feel when you get out of the water.