PERSONAL SAFETY IN THE FIELD

Co. L, 15^th NYVC

No one knows your health better than you do.  Heat stress can be uncomfortable during the summer months not to mention being dressed in our wool’s and other period clothing.  Other than heat there are a host of other issues that may arise.  It is therefore that I offer the following suggestions, while you are at an event or drilling.

·        Drink plenty of water.  This should be done before attending a drill or event.   Water intake is the natural way to cool the body down and help preventing heat stress.

·        Bring extra water with you.  At some events the water taste terrible.

·        Always have a full canteen.  This applies to drill and before a battle / skirmish.

·        If any member should feel uncomfortable because of health reasons, by all means let someone in command know (15^th).  We will assign someone to stay with you.

·        By all means get comfortable if it is a hot sultry day.  I do not believe Civil War Soldiers did not have the common sense to take off their coats and roll up their sleeves.   In fact I have seen photos of artillery units at Petersburg in that same dress (Jackets off and sleeves rolled up).

·        Get proper sleep!  At many events weekends have a tendency of long evenings and early mornings.

·        Eat proper foods!  Eat foods that will help you stay in condition for an event.   Stay away from foods that will stuff you and slow you down.

·        If you are on any medication or have a guarded condition tell someone or write it on a piece of paper and keep it in your wallet.

·        Stay away from Poison ivy and other poisonous plants.  

·        When in the field be cautious where you step.  Be careful of holes in the ground.  Holes and rocks are a good source of injury.

·        If you have allergies or reaction to certain plants or insects let someone know.

·        Always register your presence at an event and carry ID. 

·        If you are injured at an event please report it.  This is very important.

·        Reenacting horses should be well trained, so respect them and train your self to use care in their presence. Even the gentlest animal may accidentally injure you. Tell your children not to touch or feed a horse without the owner's permission and presence. Do not make any sudden movements or noises that may startle an animal. Should a horse spook and start to run loose, don't try to stop it, just get out of the way and let someone with horse experience round up the horse.

Remember have fun, but play it safe.

Rev.10.24.04