Even mild dehydration results in significant negative physical outcomes, which is dangerous when lives are on the line
When I was a young firefighter in the early 1980s, my department did not carry any kind of drinking water supply on the rigs. Individuals could stash a water bottle in their seats, but more often than not, we would be out for hours on a searing summer day with no access to fluids in any form.
That situation changed over the years – every engine and truck began carrying a large cooler jug full of water, and the battalion chief always had a case of sports drinks in his truck. But it was still extremely difficult to stay adequately hydrated at work, and we all suffered the consequences. Read More…