Don’t get dehydrated in cold weather during your security shift.

As a security officer being in the weather elements cannot be avoided. Whether you have an inside post or not, you must go outside to come and go from work. 

Chicago is -9 degrees today. It is freezing!

Regardless of the conditions we must remain focused, professional and ready to perform our duties.

The following are a few tips on staying warm during your shift when affected by the cold weather.

Dress warm.

Firstly, dress warm. I would suggest dressing in layers. You may find yourself getting warm and it is easier to take off layers to be able to more accurately adjust your body temperature. Remember, you do not want to sweat and have that moisture sitting on you in the cold.

Have a second pair of socks.

You cannot allow your feet to get wet because surviving your shift in the cold will be impossible. A second pair of socks allows you to keep your feet dry and let your feet breathe.

Stand up.

That’s right. Stand up. If you are at a post sitting all shift in the cold you are not helping your body. Get up every 20 minutes or so to allow your body to stretch. Stretching allows you to create blood flow. Try walking around your post area so you can create heat and get that circulation going.

Dehydration is real in winter.

Do you have dry mouth or dry skin? How about decreased urine output. Some people even feel dizziness.

You must remember to drink plenty of fluids during the cold weather days and winter.

Some tips to help with hydration would be the following:

· Drink plenty of water and drink water regularly. Try to sip on water throughout the day

· Shop for water-rich foods. Foods like vegetables and fruit are water based

· Warm drinks like tea or broth from soup can allow for some comfort in cold weather while allowing for the warming effect of the fluids

NOTE: Cold weather has been said to suppress your thirst sensation. You just may not know you are thirsty which will cause dehydration because you are not drinking enough fluids.

In conclusion, stay warm, hydrated and think warm thoughts.