Safety

Precautions against the heat

Summer temperatures in Manassas can climb well above 90 degrees Fahrenheit, but with the humidity, it can feel close to or more than 100 degrees. Sunburn, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke can result from excessive heat exposure. Senior citizens and those suffering from chronic medical conditions may be more susceptible.

Take the following precautions to protect yourself against the heat:

• Drink plenty of water
• Bring a water bottle and drink water throughout the day even when you are not thirsty
• Minimize consumption of beverages containing caffeine or alcohol
• Eat throughout the day
• Eat a healthy breakfast and normal meals throughout the day
• Take frequent shade breaks to cool off
• Periodically get out of the heat and into air conditioning, especially between the hours of 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
• Avoid overexertion
• Reduce exertion during the hottest hours
• Loosen tight clothing
• Loosen clothing and cool off outside before entering an air-conditioned space
• Bring extra medication.

If you are taking any prescribed medication for illness or medical conditions, be sure to bring extra doses just in case and have the medication information easily available in case medical providers need to know when treating in an emergency. Some prescription medications make you more susceptible to sunburn. Be aware of the potential side effects of any medication you are taking and take appropriate precautions to protect yourself.

If you or someone you know exhibits the following signs and symptoms, go to a first aid tent or summon help as soon as possible.

The symptoms of heat exhaustion include:

• Profuse sweating
• Nausea, headache, dizziness
• Weakness, exhaustion
• Cool, pale, flushed or ashen skin
• Increased body temperature

The symptoms of heat stroke include:

• Red, hot skin
• Change in level of consciousness (may become unresponsive)
• Rapid or shallow breathing
• Rapid, weak pulse
• Body temperature of 104 degrees F or above

Heat stroke is a life-threatening condition. Cool victims rapidly with splashed water and fanning. Summon help immediately.

Tick Safety:

The battlefield contains a variety of ticks, and knowing tick safety protocols is very important for one's health. Some ticks are carriers of blood born pathogens, which can be transmitted when the tick is embedded in its host. Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever and Lyme Disease can be prevented with the right precautions. Please read the following information about tick safety and prevention.

First Aid Tent Locations:

There will be three First Aid tents located throughout the park during the four-day event. View site map here.

• Henry Hill area - between the Visitor Center and the Family and Youth Tent
• Destination Village
• Chinn Ridge Visitor Parking lot (north side)