Understand Heat Index and Hydration
It's easy to get caught up in a Scouting activity on a hot summer day and not pay attention to how the heat is affecting your body. Heat index is defined by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration as "a measure of how hot it really feels when relative humidity is factored with the actual air temperature." The heat index/urine color chart, which can be downloaded and used to produce a sticker, pocket card, or hang tag, describes situations when you should increase your rest and water intake. Tools such as this will help you pay attention to the warning signs.
For additional information on heat, we recommend National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Heat Watch, and for staff members the Occupational Health and Safety Adminstration's recently published Campaign to Prevent Heat Illness in Outdoor Workers.