With Field Day coming up this weekend, those ham radio operators who
are planning to take part need to KEEP SAFETY FIRST!! Two ham radio
operators died in recent weeks with falls from their towers...and one
tower death is one death too many.

  Those taking part in Field Day this weekend will need to keep the
following items in mind:

1) Thunderstorms. Towers are one massive lightning rod, and lightning
can strike as much as 20 miles from a parent storm. If you have metal
tent posts nearby, lightning can arc from the tower to the tent posts,
injuring or killing those under it. Have someone keep track of storms
with apps (Radarscope or Blitzortung Lightning Tracker), and with
bulletins from the National Weather Service via NOAA Weather Radio.

  When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors...preferably to an enclosed hard top
vehicle (no convertibles, golf carts, motorcycles), or to a sturdy
enclosed building (with walls, plumbing, etc.). However, do not stand
near windows, use plumbing (bath, shower, washing dishes, etc.), use
corded phones, or touch metal objects, if thunderstorms are outside. A
close lightning strike can result in serious injury or death!!

2) Heat. The metal on the towers, tent poles, etc. will get VERY HOT
rather quickly in the summertime sun. Be sure to wear gloves, long
sleeves, and long pants, if you plan to be working on them. Otherwise,
serious or severe blisters and burns will result.

  Also, stay hydrated, with plenty of NON-ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES. Save the
"807 adult beverages" for AFTERWARDS, if you must have them. Not only
will alcholic beverages impair your judgment, but it will rock your
world in a back way with dehydration. Wear loose weight, light fitting,
light colored clothing. Stay OUT of direct sunlight as much as possible.

3) Insects. Many sprays have high concentrations of DEET to help protect
from mosquitoes with the West Nile and Zika virus, as well as from
stinging insects such as wasps, bees, hornets, and yellow jackets.
However, DEET can melt plastic and cause damage to RF gear.

  So, if you must put on spray, do it away from electronic equipment and
plastics, and wash your hands thoroughly afterwards, especially before
eating.

4) Electricity. Make sure things are properly wired and grounded. It
only takes 1 to 1 1/2 amps of electricity to send your heart into fatal
ventricular fibrilation. Do NOT work with electrical gear, if standing
in or near water...and especially if thunderstorms are nearby.

  In short, the loss of a contact during Field Day in the interest of
safety is far better, than having someone injured or killed...never mind
having equipment destroyed. RF gear can be replaced...lives can't.

Daryl, WX1DER

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