Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! As we all know, the summer heat will be coming up quickly and now is the time to start preparing. Being even slightly dehydrated will slow you down, and that’s the last thing we want during those busy summer days. Per the CDC, when working in the heat, we should drink 1 cup of water every 15 to 20 minutes. Drinking water in small intervals is more effective than large amounts infrequently. Yes, I know … Not many of us actually drink 1 cup of water every 15-20 minutes, but to combat that brutal dehydration, I purchased a nice 24-liter cooler that I keep in the backseat of my truck. During the summer months, I keep a case of water bottles in it at all times, and I add a bag of ice or an ice block every few days when I go to the gas station to fill up and grab a snack. By keeping it loaded up, I always have cold drinks on hand, and I make sure there’s a water bottle in the cup holder even while I’m drinking my morning coffee or energy drink.
Michael Krause
Owner
First Response Pool Service
Simi Valley, California
One thing I would recommend going into summer is to have an all-hands-on-deck summer meeting with your team to discuss several topics, including hydration, pace, snakes, spiders and dogs.
Hydration
It is not only important to hydrate during the day but to hydrate in the evening for the next day. If you are thirsty, you are already dehydrated. If you can afford it, I recommend providing reusable water bottles to the team and providing Liquid I.V. daily.
Pace
It is important to maintain a certain pace in the heat. You don’t want to overexert yourself out there. Keep a consistent and steady pace, and your body will thank you.
Snakes and spiders
When it warms up, the critters come out of hibernation. Watch your feet when rounding a corner into a backyard as snakes like to crawl along the walls of the house and hide in the bushes near walkways. Be careful when opening skimmer lids as black widows and other spiders like to hide in the lid.
Dogs
Families will be home for summer vacation, and this changes the pattern of the dogs. Some dogs that are usually inside may be outside and vice versa. If a family is home, the dog will more than likely become protective, so a dog that normally lets you pet it may become defensive and bite because it feels you are threatening its family. Get in the habit of knocking on doors and/or shaking the gate to make sure both you and the dog are comfortable with the situation.
Tyler Rasmussen
Regional director of operations and GM, Arizona
National Pool Partners
Scottsdale, Arizona
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