Risk Management Magazine

The nature of our business requires Soldiers to always be prepared to operate in severe weather conditions with extreme temperatures; however, heat injuries can occur even when temperatures aren’t extreme.

Although many years have passed, I distinctly recall the practical exercise on changing a tire as a young private just starting my military career. The reason why this memory stands out is due to a run-in with a particularly loud and brash drill instructor that happened to see me working without eye protection. The ensuing 15-minute PT session ensured I learned one thing — personal protective equipment is important. 

Our mission was a two-ship armed reconnaissance patrol in our sector designed to prevent and identify insurgent activity at known hot spots. In hindsight, I now realize a couple of important things I should have considered to avoid a close call.