Operation “American Spring” set for May 16, 2014: Target Washington, D.C.

Operation “American Spring” set for May 16, 2014: Target Washington, D.C.

 OAS Medical/First Aid
Health and Medical Considerations for
Operation American Spring--May 2014.
(Always check with your personal physician for your own health circumstances)
Information and Important Tips

1. Please, please dress accordingly for the Washington, DC weather. Hypothermia is a mission breaker. Bring extra warm clothing---you can always take off extra clothing if we have warm May days. Wind-proof jackets/coats are necessary. Hats and gloves may be needed. Wide brimmed hats to prevent sunburn. Be sure to bring at least 2 pairs of very comfortable, well broken-in shoes for walking. Multiple extra pairs of clean/dry socks are critical. Bring anti-fungal foot powder.

2. Strongly consider bringing a good rain coat or poncho of some type. The disposable type can be purchased for about $1.00 at sporting goods or camping stores. If you are wet, you will freeze...even in the spring. You might also want to consider bringing a lightweight “camp stool” if you are not good on your feet for long periods of time.

3. Bring/purchase non-perishable foods/beverages. Bring bottled water and a refillable Nalgene water bottle. You must stay hydrated! You must guard against dehydration...even breathing causes insensible water loss. Dehydration is a mission breaker...Stay hydrated with water or sports drinks. Try to limit caffeine if it is really hot.

4. Regarding bathroom issues: In 2009 at 9/11 in DC, there were 2 hour waits for bathrooms and porta-johns. People wet themselves. You might think this is crazy...you are entitled...but I suggest bringing a travel urinal (you can buy them at a drugstore, also with a female adapter ) ...add a dark green opaque poncho...and walaaaa...you have your own porta-john. A street storm sewer will be nearby for dumping...of course, this only works for urine. Also, bring toilet paper and sani-wipes/baby wipes and hand alcohol gel, in any case.

5. Hygiene: We will try to identify local places/patriots who can offer shower facilities for cleaning up...but we must be prepared for some "field hygiene". Deodorant and or Antiperspirant, along with travel sized soaps and shampoos or "dry shampoo". Unscented baby wipes are amazing for a quick clean-up. A & D Ointment or Desitin for a chaffed rear end. Gold Bond Medicated powder is good for lots of things. Dental Care with toothbrush, toothpaste and floss. Foot care is critical...keep feet clean and dry...foot powder...ask any soldier! Female hygiene items as needed. Tissues or handkerchiefs. Several pair of clean underwear and socks and a towel are necessary. We will identify Laundromats for washing clothing. Your good skin integrity is crucial for preventing infections of all kinds.

6. Bring all of your necessary medications in a plentiful amount. Bring additional paper prescriptions as needed. Take all of your meds as ordered by your physician. If you are diabetic, bring your blood glucose meter and insulin in a cooler or oral medication. Diabetics must eat regularly and test blood sugar and treat accordingly! If you use pain meds...Do NOT advertise it! You will get mugged for your meds. If you have constipation...bring stool softener. Bring Antacids, Tylenol, Motrin, etc. for minor discomforts. If you have serious health problems (Diabetes, High Blood Pressure, Allergies, etc.) GET A MEDIC ALERT BRACELET and wear it. Bring a typed list of your health problems, medications, allergies, physicians phone #'s and your emergency contact phone #'s.

7. Bring Band-Aids/mole skin for walking blisters and any minor first-aid supplies that you think you might need. Ben-Gay or Bio Freeze will help aching muscles. Bactine antiseptic spray and Bacitracin antibiotic ointment, foot powder, sting swabs, Ace bandages.

8. Bee Sting Allergy Sufferers: Bring oral Benadryl, an epi-pen and a medrol dose-pak if your Dr. will prescribe you one. Make sure you know how to use these things. If you get stung, seek immediate medical attention.

9. Safety: A cane or a walking stick can be a source of support and protection. Consider a tactical flashlight for light and protection.


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