Hydration during hot weather, both crew and passengers

[Bill Reidy]

Talking with Jason earlier today about yesterday's grand opening, he suggested I start the following thread.

During yesterday's Mountain Extension Grand Opening, a concerted, somewhat quiet effort was made to ensure everyone present was hydrated throughout the day.  Like so many this summer, it was a very hot, humid day.  You might have noticed Mike Fox' post showing the crew meeting in the basement of the Percival House, the coolest place at Sheepscot for the meeting at the start of a long day.

Joseph Gilbert led the effort to supply many coolers filled with ice, water and Gatorade, most of which were stationed at the south end of Saturday's train.  As the day progressed, conductors, brakemen and train hosts ensured our 166 passengers were supplied throughout the day.  More refreshments were provide at the ceremonies at the Alna Center pavilion.

The result is we did not have any heat-related injuries reported.

One statistic:  I supplied 18 40-pack cases of bottles of water the past 9 days.  This is in addition to the water, Gatorade and other drinks Cindy and others have also provided.  At the end of day yesterday, we had 4 40-pack cases of bottles of water available.  This is a testimony to the effort of the work and train crew foremen and crew to keep everyone safe the past 9 days.

The point here is we should continue to ensure enough coolers are adequately provided based on weather conditions, filled with water and other drinks, frequently offered to our passengers. 

[Mike Fox]

To those that thought of this, it was a great idea. And some of the crew consistently went through the train asking if anyone needed water. It was very hot in the cars with limited air movement. The longer the train sat, the hotter it got..

[Stephen Lennox]

I would like to add on to Bills post that on the Track crews tools list for every Tuesday and Wednesday we carry a cooler of ice and water for all hands. It's a crew chief/foreman's job to look out for everyone who is working under him/her. This is one of those "Risk Management" topics one must consider to help keep everyone safe.

[Wayne Laepple]

(raises hand) I can attest to all of the above. Last October, during the Fall Work Weekend, I had a bout with dehydration while working with the flanging machine. I felt a bit woozy and sat down, but not quite soon enough, and I fainted for a few moments. I drank some water when I came to, but in the meantime, a 911 call had taken place, and I got to ride the an ambulance to Miles Hospital in Damariscotta and stay overnight while my condition was observed and evaluated. Since, then, I am very cognizant of the need for regular water breaks, and this past week, while working on No. 11's frames, two bottles of water were always close at hand. While everyone at Miles Hospital was great, I'd rather not make another visit!