This project is part of a series of studies investigating modifications of existing methods for monitoring the potential for heat exhaustion. Heat exhaustion arises from a combination of measurable variables in the human body. The primary contributing factors to heat exhaustion include core temperature, high energy consumption with improper caloric intake, and dehydration. Despite close monitoring and replenishment of hydration and energy levels, some individuals still succumb to heat exhaustion (Cuddy & Ruby, 2011). One population exposed to significant risk factors of heat exhaustion are wildland fire fighters (WLFFs). WLFFs work at an average rate of 229 + 56 kcal/hour over the course of a typical 12-16 hour work day (Ruby et al., 2002). Often, this high energy expenditure combined with envronmental hazards including difficult terrain at high elevation and ambient heat contribute to overall risk of heat exhaustion among this population.
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