The Local 1014 Health Plan Board of Trustees is proud to present our Summer 2023 Edition of our quarterly newsletter, The Health Line.
As temperatures continue to rise this summer, we want to ensure that our members continue to protect themselves from the intense heat. In this edition you will find several tips to ensure you enjoy your summer in a healthy and safe way. From summer hearing tips that can impact your health to skin cancer prevention and prescription refills while on vacation, our goal is to ensure you have a safe and healthy summer.
For our members on the frontline, Firefighting is a hot job no matter when you do it. But during the summer months, with all that extra heat and humidity, it can be brutal. Temperatures are expected to continue to rise with increased humidity through September, so it is essential to be vigilant about heat safety and self care.
Remember, anyone can feel sick from the heat, but people with heart disease, as well as young children and the elderly, are more at risk because their bodies don’t adapt to the heat as easily. Problems with your cardiovascular system, as well as some medications, may make it harder for your body to cool down when it’s hot. Signs of heat-related illness include headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, heavy sweating, flushed skin, rapid heartbeat and thirst.
Thank you for continuing to place your trust in us as we strive to provide the best healthcare for our first responders who selflessly serve our communities each day.
As temperatures continue to rise this summer, we want to ensure that our members continue to protect themselves from the intense heat. In this edition you will find several tips to ensure you enjoy your summer in a healthy and safe way.”
Now Local 1014 Health Plan members and their families can find the answer to questions about your medical benefits anytime, using any internet connected computer, tablet – even your smartphone!
We are excited to announce we are enhancing MEMBERXG to provide access to spouses and dependents. Your secure login gives you 24/7 access to your personal medical benefits details and status, as well as important plan documents and updates.
Sign on any time, any day, from anywhere you can access the internet, and quickly get the information you need. There is no charge for this service and your spouse or adult dependents can get their own free account.
•On the initial MemberXG screen, click the Create Account box in the upper right corner
•Enter the following information:
o User Type—either Member or Dependent
oEmail Address
oConfirm Email Address
oFirst Name and Last Name (capital letters)
oSSN (last four digits)
oDate of Birth (MM/DD/YYYY format)
oZip Code
oMobile Phone number (optional)
•Click Next
•Enter a password, review the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and select the checkbox
•Click Finish, the account is created, and you will be returned to the initial MemberXG screen.
and can be done TODAY!
To register, you can find the link on our website under www.local1014medical.org/
MEMBERXG or scan the QR code to register.
NOTE:
When registering all fields must match EXACTLY in order to create an account. One email address per user. For security, you will be asked to verify your identity each time you login from a new device.
Facing a scorching blaze that can reach temperatures of up to 2000 degrees Fahrenheit while wearing heavy gear can be incredibly taxing. Add to that the heat and humidity of a summer’s day, and finding relief might seem like an impossible task. To help firefighters cool down and stay safe on and off duty during hot weather, here are some essential “do’s and don’ts.”
Hydration is key to combating the heat. Water should be your go-to drink, but coconut water, rich in potassium and electrolytes, is also a great option. Make sure to drink water regularly, even if you don’t feel thirsty, and begin hydrating before your shift to maintain proper hydration levels. In intense firefighting situations, your body can lose up to 1 liter of sweat per hour, so replenish lost electrolytes with electrolyte beverages as soon as possible.
Avoid caffeinated beverages, sugary drinks, and alcohol during hot days. Caffeine can increase body warmth by constricting blood vessels, while sugary drinks can lead to thirst and energy crashes. Alcohol causes dehydration, so it’s best to avoid it, especially before a shift.
Opt for light, healthy meals that are easier for your body to process. Include foods that help replenish lost electrolytes, such as watermelon, peaches, apricots, and radishes. Leafy greens with their high water content also aid in keeping you hydrated.
Avoid heavy meals, particularly those high in protein, as they require more energy to digest, generating additional heat. Consider substituting with lighter meals that focus more on carbohydrates.
Being physically fit allows your body to handle heat stress more efficiently, resulting in lower heart rates and body temperatures. Fit individuals can adjust to high temperatures twice as fast as those who are less physically active.
It takes time to acclimate to working in the heat. Gradually increase your activity level over 10-14 days to give your body time to adjust. Listen to your body, and take breaks when needed.
Employ various cooling methods to reduce body heat. Keep a bucket of ice water nearby to immerse your hands and forearms. Apply a frozen damp towel to the back of your neck for quick relief. Cool other pulse points like wrists, chest, and temples. Spritz yourself with water or pour water down your neck from a bottle. A cold pack vest can be useful if it fits under your gear. However, avoid misting fans in humid environments, as they may increase the risk of burns.
Heatstroke can be dangerous and even deadly. If you experience symptoms such as feeling warm, light-headedness, or muscle cramps, remove your jacket to let heat escape and apply ice packs to your forearms. Seek immediate help if you encounter the following heatstroke symptoms:
• Body temperature above 103 Fahrenheit
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Headache
• Red, hot, and dry skin
• Rapid heartbeat
• Confusion
By following these do’s and don’ts, firefighters can better cope with the sweltering conditions and ensure their safety during hot summer days, both on and off duty.
Source: https://mycalcas.com/2021/07/firefighters-summertime-dos-and-donts/#:~:text=Include%20foods%20that%20help%20 replenish,t%3A%20Eat%20a%20heavy%20meal.
With summer in full swing, it’s important for to understand how noise levels affect your hearing and overall health. Hearing loss has been linked to several health concerns, including:
People are more prone to falls as they can’t hear the subtle cues that help with balance.
There are links to diabetes, chronic kidney disease and cardiovascular disease. Hearing loss is twice as common in people who have diabetes than those who don’t.
Not being able to fully participate in conversations can lead to frustration, isolation, anxiety, depression and even paranoia.
A 2023 Johns Hopkins study found a potential link between hearing loss and increased risk of dementia, and that addressing hearing loss may reduce risk.
Here are 3 common summer activities that could be playing a part in your hearing loss and the proactive steps you can take to help protect your ears:
Keeping the yard tidy is an important task, but a mower can create noise at 80 dBs, which can cause damage to hearing in just 2 hours. Ear plugs can help reduce noise levels.
While fireworks play a role in summer celebrations, they can exceed 150 dBs and are more hazardous to hearing than other loud noise. Watching the show at a safe distance and wearing ear plugs can help.
Ringing in your ears after a noise is a sign that inner ear cells may have been damaged. Without ear protection, hearing loss is possible in less than 5 minutes. Listening from further back in the audience can help lessen the impact.
Any travel involves some level of planning and preparation — from what to pack and where to stay to all the logistics in between.
But if you’re one of the more than 55% of Americans who take prescription medications regularly, that preparation should also include making sure you have the medications you need and knowing how to travel safely with them.
Before you hit the road or board a plane, here are five questions to discuss with your pharmacist.
1.How can I safely store my medications?
Be sure to store your medications similarly to how you do at home. If your medications require refrigeration, such as insulin, there are a number of travel storage devices available that can help keep them safe. It’s also important to keep your medications safe from extreme temperatures for extended periods of time, and keep liquid medications stored in an upright position whenever possible.
2.What’s the best place to pack my medications?
Luggage can get lost and emergencies happen, so prescription medications should be kept in carry-on bags while in transit. Remember to keep any urgent medications, such as rescue inhalers or nitroglycerin tablets, with you at all times in case you need them.
If your carry-on is taken at the airport gate due to overhead storage issues or weight/size restrictions, be strategic. Work with the flight attendants and prioritize keeping medications with you that are vital to your health.
3.How much of my medication should I pack?
It’s a good idea to pack a full supply of your medication, plus extra in case you experience travel delays. Keep all medication together and in the original containers to prevent anyone from mistaking them for other substances.
4.What if I need to refill a prescription while on vacation?
Today’s pharmacist is just a click or phone call away, 24/7, and can help fill prescriptions at the nearest pharmacy or have it delivered to a hotel and/or vacation site. You may also want to be proactive and keep a copy of your prescriptions with you for emergency refills.
5.What if I forget to take a dose of my medication?
Even if you’re completely organized with your medication regimen, traveling can throw off your normal schedule and routine. Set reminders on your phone so you stay on track. The Express Scripts® mobile app can help with that, too.
If you miss a dose and are unsure about what to do or are experiencing any side effects, call your doctor or pharmacist immediately.
Remember, pharmacists are available 24/7 through Express Scripts® Pharmacy if you have any questions about your medications before or during your travels.
With a little bit of planning, you can feel your best and focus on enjoying your trip. Safe travels!
https://www.express-scripts.com/pharmacy/blog/tips-traveling-medications
Skin cancer is the most prevalent type of cancer in the United States, with more than 5 million people being diagnosed annually. According to the American Cancer Society, about 80% of diagnosed skin cancers are basal cell carcinoma, almost 20% are squamous cell carcinoma, and only about 1% are melanoma.
With the increased risk of skin cancer due to prolonged sun exposure, understanding sun safety and implementing skin cancer prevention measures are essential for your health and longevity. In this article, we will explore the importance of sun safety for firefighters and provide practical tips to protect your skin while on duty and off duty.
Sunlight is a potent source of ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which can cause irreversible damage to your skin. Prolonged exposure to the sun without proper protection significantly increases your risk of skin cancer, including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma. Firefighters, who often spend extended periods outdoors, are particularly vulnerable to the harmful effects of UV rays.
Wear Protective Clothing: Whenever possible, wear long-sleeved shirts, pants, and wide-brimmed hats to shield your skin from direct sunlight. Lightweight, moisture-wicking fabrics can keep you cool while providing essential protection.
Use Sunscreen: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to all exposed skin areas, including your face, neck, and ears. Reapply every two hours, or more frequently if you are sweating excessively or coming into contact with water.
Seek Shade: When on a break or waiting for assignments, find shaded areas to reduce your sun exposure. This simple practice can make a significant difference in minimizing UV radiation exposure.
Use Lip Balm with SPF: Don’t forget to protect your lips from the sun’s harmful rays by using a lip balm that contains SPF.
UV-Protective Eyewear: Wear sunglasses with UV protection to safeguard your eyes and the delicate skin around them.
Be Cautious of Medications: A number of medications make the skin more sensitive to the sun. Examples of these include anti-inflammatories, blood pressure medications, antibiotics, antifungals, and acne medications. If you are taking or being treated with one or more of these, limit your sun exposure to avoid skin cancer.
Stay Hydrated: Proper hydration is essential in hot weather. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your skin hydrated and aid in regulating body temperature.
Schedule Tasks Wisely: Whenever possible, schedule outdoor tasks during the early morning or late afternoon when the sun’s intensity is lower.
Conduct Self-Skin Checks: Routinely inspect your skin for any changes, including new moles, unusual growths, or spots that appear different from the surrounding skin. Early detection of potential skin issues can be lifesaving.
Promote a culture of sun safety and skin cancer prevention within your firefighting team. Encourage your colleagues to follow these tips and prioritize their skin health.
In the scorching heat of summer, staying hydrated is essential to maintain your well-being and beat the heat. Why settle for plain water when you can enjoy a refreshing and delicious homemade drink that not only keeps you hydrated but also tantalizes your taste buds? This Cucumber Mint Lemonade recipe is the perfect solution! Packed with hydrating ingredients and a burst of flavors, it’s a delightful way to quench your thirst and stay cool during the hottest days of summer.
Ingredients:
1 large cucumber, peeled and sliced
1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
4 cups water
1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 4 lemons)
2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
Ice cubes
Lemon slices and mint sprigs for garnish
Directions:
1
Prepare the Cucumber-Mint Infused Water:
a. In a pitcher, combine the sliced cucumber and fresh mint leaves.
b. Pour in 4 cups of water over the cucumber and mint mixture.
c. Stir gently and refrigerate the pitcher for at least 1 hour, allowing the flavors to infuse.
Create the Lemonade Base:
a. After the infused water has chilled, remove the pitcher from the refrigerator.
2
b. Using a fine-mesh strainer, strain the cucumber-mint infused water into another pitcher, discarding the cucumber and mint solids.
Add Lemon Juice and Sweetener:
a. Squeeze the juice from the lemons until you have approximately 1/2 cup of fresh lemon juice.
Enjoy your revitalizing Cucumber Mint Lemonade, and revel in the delightful coolness it brings to your summer days. This hydrating drink not only quenches your thirst but also provides a delightful fusion of flavors, making it the perfect companion for poolside relaxation, picnics, or any summer gathering. Stay healthy, stay hydrated, and savor the taste of summer with this easy-to-make, invigorating lemonade recipe!
b. Pour the lemon juice into the cucumber-mint infused water.
c. Add 2 tablespoons of honey or maple syrup to the pitcher.
d. Stir the mixture well until the sweetener is fully dissolved.
Serve:
a. Fill tall glasses with ice cubes.
b. Pour the refreshing Cucumber Mint Lemonade into each glass.
c. Garnish with lemon slices and a sprig of fresh mint for an extra touch of elegance and flavor.
