Golfers beware: the blistering summer is dangerous

Prevention is the key with regards to sunburn, sun poisoning, heat exhaustion, heat stroke and other sun-related issues. For golfers it’s important to wear looser, breathable clothing and avoid sticky cotton. Broad brim hats will keep the sun from doing further damage to ears, face and neck. The most important prevention of all is to apply sunscreen SPF 30 or higher, generously and often. WebMD online recommends applying sunscreen 15 to 30 minutes before going outside, and reapplying every two hours, because sunscreen washes off with sweat and no brand is really waterproof. Dermatologists advise that when applying sunscreen, we should cover our face, ears, nose, neck, arms, back of hands and legs.

            Doctors who treat sun stroke and heat-related illnesses note that, when recognized in the early stages, less severe conditions, such as mild heat exhaustion, can be treated at home. The first thing is to stop vigorous activity, get out of the heat (leave the golf course) and rest. Get into a cooler environment, like shade and an air-conditioned space, and elevate your feet while removing as much clothing as practical. First aid involves cooling the person’s body by sponging cool water.

            When we indulge in outdoor activities, like golf, or even yard work, the only way to cope with the desert heat is to hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. Beer is not hydrating. Water is most useful, and may be supplemented by replacing electrolytes with legitimate sports drinks. Sports physicians tell us to drink at least a quart of water every hour when the temperature is over 70 degrees. Since there are no drinking fountains and few water coolers on golf courses these days, bringing your own water in an insulated jug is smart. Excess alcohol consumption on the golf course on really hot days will only make heat prostration more probable. Remember, if you wait until you’re “thirsty” to hydrate it’s a mistake.

            Here are a few more tips for handling playing golf in the summer heat. One question is when is it actually too hot to venture out on the golf course and play golf? There is no hard and fast rule, but there are conditions when it is advisable to stay out of the broiling sun. Seriously overweight persons, older adults (over 70), people who are taking certain prescribed medications, people with certain medical conditions, and folks who have a history of sun and heat-related difficulties, should be very careful about going out in air temperatures over 90 degrees. If there is some doubt as to whether it would be safe to golf in the summer sun one should consult a physician. When one checks the high temperature for the day, one should realize that is air temperature; the real temperature effect is under direct baking sunlight, and that can be much higher.

            Many of the resorts in arid Arizona and elsewhere have water misters automatically spraying out of their motorized carts  to keep their guests safe, cool and comfortable. That might not be a bad idea for golf course operators here in Las Cruces to offer as an option on their rental carts. For golfers who usually ride in carts there are portable misters and fans available in a variety of sizes from retailers. A moist towel around your neck is another helpful trick.  Remember, don’t drink and drive – don’t even putt.

Charlie Blanchard is a guest columnist and a retired golf teacher and writer. He can be reached at docblanchard71@gmail.com.