by Rick Nelson
rickn@isb.ac.th
The Safety Corner – Thursday, February 5
Rick Nelson, ISB Safety Manager
Prevention Tips for Sun and Heat Protection.
There is no way around it – Bangkok is HOT!!
Recently, ISB went through a Safety and Security Audit by Clearpath EPM and in our final report various areas of threat were assessed for schools in Bangkok and ISB in particular. Above all other possible threats, the only threat considered critical was the severe heat of Thailand (this was rated higher then flooding, vehicular accidents, fire, political/civil unrest, crime, etc.). As we move through February the sun, heat and humidity will gradually rise and the possibilities to exposed risk to heat illness and sun burn increase. Here are a few safety tips and reminders to help protect yourself and your child.
- Wear wide brimmed hats and wear appropriate clothing for hot/sunny conditions. Elementary students must wear hats for PE, recess and lunch breaks outdoors.
- Apply sunscreen/sunblock to protect from UV radiation from the sun. According to the American Melanoma Foundation, the sunscreen/sunblock used should be a minimum of SPF 15 and should be broad spectrum to address both UVB and UVA radiation. The sunscreen/sunblock should be applied 20-30 minutes before exposure to the sun and then reapplied regularly while in the sun. Don’t forget to protect lips by using a similar SPF 15 or greater lip balm. This is particularly important for children whose skin is more delicate and easily damaged. Studies have shown that sunburn during early childhood can increase the risk of skin cancer later in life.
- Hydrate throughout the day with pure water! Students must bring full water bottles to trainings and PE classes.
- Take regular breaks when outdoors. Take your breaks in the shade or in rooms where AC or fans are available.
In the next week’s Safety Corner, there will be a review of signs and symptoms of heat related illness (heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke) and what each person can do to prevent these potentially dangerous conditions.
Rick Nelson
ISB Safety Manager
International School Bangkok
Email: rickn@isb.ac.th
Tel: +66 2 963 5803
Ext: 7734
Mobile: (6608) 1940-3125