death by heat wave?

[Anonymous]

Ok, I can almost honestly say that there is only one thing about the concept of boot camp that is bothering me. As a college freshman, I'll be attending in mid-summer. I've heard some NASTY rumors about heat, and how it's even too hot for the sand fleas, but I have to know from those who have experienced the same hellish atmosphere I'm about to throw myself into- as someone who has avoided the sun her entire life and despises being too hot... am I gonna die? Honestly? I want to know how you like-minded girls dealt with this situation...

[Anonymous]

They take special precautions during HOT/SOP. There is always an ambulance around, they make sure you drink plenty of water and get enough salt in your food, they raise flags to tell instructors when it's getting too hot (so if it gets to be over about 90 degrees you won't do anything strenuous outside). Don't worry, they will look after you. (Oh, and pack some high SPF sun screen for your neck and arms).

[Anonymous]

Hey Erin, fancy meeting you here... The recruiter also mentioned to me, when I asked about this, that people who are especially sensitive to heat and sun will have marks on their shirt or something, so they'll know to look after you in particular. And don't worry, I'll be bringing the SPF 48 sunscreen =)

Tracy

VZNH@aol.com

[Anonymous]

: Hey Erin, fancy meeting you here... The recruiter also mentioned to me, when
: I asked about this, that people who are especially sensitive to heat and
: sun will have marks on their shirt or something, so they'll know to look
: after you in particular. And don't worry, I'll be bringing the SPF 48
: sunscreen =)
:
: Tracy


i'm sure its the same at ocs at it is in bootcamp in the sense that yes if you become a heat casualty (thats what they call you) they make you put a big black circle around your company letter/platoon # (which you stencil on your pt shirts).this is not a nice little warning for them to look out for you; its like being branded with a big fat A. while it allows them to keep on eye on who might be a heat casualty again (you have to mark your shirt after the fact, not before), you get hell for it. they make you mark your shirts once you have become a heat casualty, which could mean anything from getting tired and extra thirsty to passing out. so the advice is don't become one. drink water like its going out of style. always stay hydrated. if you know you don't fare too well in extreme heat, do the prudent thing and drink an extra few canteens of water, even if it means making a few extra head calls. the last thing you need to do is give them something else to give you grief for and to worry about your health. good luck!

arizzona23@hotmail.com