This article is one in a series offering tips on boating skills and seamanship prepared for The Citizen by the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary.

As the boating season approaches its peak, I would like to share with you some safety tips to prevent mishaps and enjoy boating. The prudent skipper tries to prevent them from happening and knows how to deal with them if and when they happen.

Today's column will discuss heat injuries. Next week we will discuss insect bites. The week after that is devoted to weather, ultra violet radiation and food poisoning. Granted, these are not problems exclusive to boaters. Yet boaters are more susceptible to certain of these, due to the amount of time they spend outdoors and near the water.

A mishap is any unplanned, unexpected or undesirable event causing injury, occupational illness, death or property damage. To minimize the chance that someone will be involved in a mishap this summer, each of us must take responsibility for identifying and managing the risks inherent in our summertime activities. By anticipating the unexpected, and having a plan on how we will manage changing conditions, we can greatly reduce the likelihood that a mishap will occur. Use the following safety information to help identify potential risks you may face this summer.

First, let us look at heat injuries. Be aware of the dangers associated with heat exposure and take steps to protect yourself. The most common injuries associated with heat are heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat strokes. Let us look at each one and the advice the experts offer on how to deal with them.

Heat cramps are painful cramps which occur when the body loses large amounts of salt, minerals, and fluid. Large muscles such as the legs, arms and abdomen are particularly susceptible. Heat cramps can occur alone or can be accompanied by heat exhaustion. The body temperature is usually normal.

To prevent heat cramps take frequent breaks and drink fluids. When giving first aid, replacement of electrolytes and fluids is a primary concern. Do not give salt tablets to persons with high blood pressure. Salt from a normal diet is sufficient. Drink plenty of fluid and eat foods rich in potassium.

With heat exhaustion, the victim sweats profusely, feels weak and nauseated, and sometimes will vomit. The skin is cool, moist and pale. Body temperature may be slightly elevated. Again, to prevent heat exhaustion, reduce workload, drink plenty of fluid and take breaks.

The victim of heat exhaustion should be taken to a shady area and have him/her drink plenty of water to cool the body.

Heat stroke results when the body loses control of its thermo-regulatory mechanism and the main avenue of heat loss (cooling by evaporation of sweat) is blocked. Body temperature may rise in excess of 106 degrees. This is a life-threatening emergency. The individual stops sweating, the pulse is weak and rapid, the skin is hot and dry and the victim can go into convulsions or lose consciousness. To prevent heat stroke follow the same preventive measures for heat cramps and heat exhaustion. Be wary of the signs and symptoms as the onset of heatstroke is sudden. If faced with a heat stroke situation, summon medical assistance as soon as possible. Immediately cool the body. Take the individual to shade, loosen clothing, wet the victim's skin and fan him/her. In extreme cases, use an ice bath if available or immerse the victim in cool water to reduce core temperature. One attack of heat stroke predisposes a person to a second attack, so avoid subsequent exposures.

Many boaters and their guests in particular, attempt to get a good sun tan in one single day. The prudent skipper keeps an eye for heat related injuries. Needless to say, if the situation appears serious, summon help.

In next week's column we will discuss insect borne annoyances and diseases.

John E. Keshishoglou is the IP

flotilla commander of the Ithaca Flotilla 22. He can be reached at (607) 273-7175