Recently my partner Jyan and I attended the amazing Folsom Europe in Berlin. I was amazed at how many rubber pups were in attendance. Sadly one hot day there was a medical emergency I needed to attend due to heatstroke. Today I thought it was important to discuss how to stay safe and avoid dehydration and heatstroke while wearing your favourite latex and rubber gear.
How To Stay Safe In Full Rubber Gear
What Are The Signs Of Heatstroke or Dehydration In Rubber?
The early signs of heat stroke can be subtle so be aware of the following signs of things starting to go wrong:
- Becoming thirsty
- Feelings of confusion, irritability or disorientation
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Muscle or abdominal cramps
- Fainting
- Seizures if allowed to go too far
What Is The First Aid For Heat Stroke?
- Get the person out of the sun and into a cool shaded area away from the heat.
- Remove the person's hood and as much of the rubber gear as modesty will allow so they can cool off.
- If the person is alert give small sips of water, cordial or sports drink to help replenish fluids.
- If they are not starting to feel better, or they are starting to get worse:
SEEK MEDICAL HELP IMMEDIATELY. - Apply cool towels, gently fan the skin and cool sprays of water can help bring the body temperature down.
- If the person has any medical conditions or any concerns about their health, see a doctor ASAP.
Tips & Tricks To Avoid Heatstroke In Rubber Gear
Always choose your gear with an understanding of the climate you will be wearing it. An afternoon in the sun on a very hot summer day is not the day to wear full rubber gear!
Make sure you are well hydrated *before* you put on your gear and head out! The darker your urine is the more you need to top up your fluids!
Keep out of the sun as much as you can. Enjoy the shade knowing that you'll stay cooler and will also be protecting your expensive gear from the damage of sunlight.
Avoid alcohol, excessive exercise such as dancing and any substances that increase body heat (drugs like amphetamines, cocaine and even marijuana can lead to increased body temperature).
Take time to open up your gear and allow your skin to breath! Take a break, drink some cool water and let your body temperature regulate.
If you start to feel unwell, nauseous, faint or confused, get changed out of your gear and allow your body to get back to it's normal temperature. Get out of the sun and rest while having a cool drink.
If someone faints or collapses, get medical help immediately. Get them out of the heat and help them cool by removing rubber gear and fan their skin to help cool them down. Cool towels and even sprays with a cool mist can help reduce temperature.
Look after yourself pups. It's great to look amazing in gear but it's no use if you pass out or feel sick. Look after yourself and your fellow rubber puppies!
Hugs and tugs,
Gpup Alpha.