Outdoor activities are always fun during the summer months; however, we all need to be aware of the dangers that these hotter days present. Many individuals living with a disability have a difficult time regulating their body temperature often due to an autonomic nervous system that doesn’t work as it designed.

The following items are suggestions for churches to include in a “Cooling Kit” that they could have on hand during summer services and events:
Cooling towels
 Ice packs
 Electrolyte replacement powder which can be added to water.
 Coolers with ice to keep the cooling towels cold.
 Spray bottle with fan
 Cooling vest
 Storage tub for transport, if you have several items, it might make more sense to have smaller tubs than one large, no need to put the person lifting and carrying at risk.

Some symptoms of overheating with a spinal cord injury to watch for are:
 Weakness and fatigue
 Goosebumps or tingling skin
 Red blotches around the face and/or neck area
 Autonomic dysreflexia
 Getting dizzy or nauseous
 Change in heart rate (typically increased)
 Shortness of breath

In conclusion, the person who may be at risk, may not recognize the symptoms,
therefore it would be wise to educate those taking part in the event/outing so that they notice an issue occurring and intervene. Always be sure to communicate with the individual before invading their personal space.