The importance of water
Guy A. Dalrymple
Lieutenant
Kitsap County Fire District #7
Port Orchard, Washington
I commend the magazine for running Caroline Smith`s “The Importance of Water” (Fueling the Firefighter, August 1995). Sadly, health and nutrition have been overlooked by many of us in the fire service. The importance of maintaining the single most valuable piece of equipment in our service cannot be overstressed.
Smith states that active people (i.e., firefighters) should be consuming on the average “at least one to two cups [of water] every hour. In hot and humid weather, the demand will increase.” I do not disagree with this statement or any part of the article in the least. However, in the opposite climate, the same holds true. Winter weather, especially those cold and dry conditions found in Midwest winters, can be just as taxing on the body`s fluid levels. Maintaining adequate intake during these months should not be forgotten.
It cannot be stated enough: Proper hydration is paramount to good health. Urine output and frequency are the best indicators of good hydration. As recommended, water is the best choice.
