SAFETY REPORT - REMEMBER TO STAY HYDRATED

Written by Reece Bateson

Summer is here, bringing with it clear skies and hot days. But summer is also the peak season for an often overlooked but serious flight hazard: dehydration. Unfortunately, many pilots are unaware of the symptoms of dehydration and the dangers this condition can pose during flight.

Contrary to popular belief, the feeling of thirst is not the best indicator of dehydration. Health experts say that by the time you feel thirsty, you might already be in the throes of dehydration. Left untreated, dehydration can cause headaches, fatigue, dizziness, muscle cramps, nausea, and disorientation. Each of these symptoms can significantly impede one’s mental and physical performance. For pilots, this can lead to poor decision-making, putting them at an increased risk of dangerous incidents or accidents. So, what can you do to prevent dehydration when flying during the hot summer months?

Here are some helpful tips to remember:

Signs of dehydration

Some of the warning signs of mild dehydration to look out for include headache, fatigue, dizziness, dry or sticky mouth, and of course, the sensation of thirst. If you notice any of these signs in yourself or one of your passengers, rehydrate right away and move to a cooler area, if possible. Do not hesitate to cancel or delay your plans until you feel up for flying.

Take water on every flight

It’s a good idea to keep a bottle of water (or a sports drink) to your flight bag to maintain hydration. Keep some water bottles on board for your passengers as well. The amount of water you need each day depends on individual factors. Please click on the link below to read more on the real world effects dehydration can have on decision making: https://www.atsb.gov.au/media/4785906/ao-2014-013_ final.pdf

Fly safely this summer and remember to stay hydrated!