Preventing Heat Exhaustion in Zoos

Mossman Joe

Mossman Joe

Well-Known Member
I've taken a few whole-day excursions to zoos now and the same problem arises every time, I get dizzy by the end of the day and have to rest until tomorrow as the dizziness disappears after a good night sleep.

I'm pretty sure now that this happens due to me being exposed to the sun for a longer time than I usually do, so during my last zoo trip I decided to properly prep myself to hopefully prevent this from happening again. I applied sunscreen, had myself an umbrella, actively kept myself hydrated throughout the day, and consciously prevented myself from running or doing anything strenuous, and yet, I still got dizzy by the end of the day.

I acknowledge that there might be other factors at play. I live in a tropical country and the hot and humid air seems to sap my strength much faster. I might also have a naturally weak constitution which could be alleviated by exercise(?).

In short, do you all have a favorite method of preventing heat exhaustion during a zoo-trip?
 
You could be particularly susceptible for any number of reasons, including a health issue.

Personally, I would spend some time in air-conditioned areas throughout the day. I could also see timing visits to cooler days and/or cooler times of day. I would also recommend taking time to rest either in an air-conditioned area or, if one isn't available, the shade.

I also have a hard time with extended exposure to heat.
 
Not knowing your general physical capabilities it makes it more difficult to advise. If your typical lifestyle is not physically active, then a full day outdoors would be tough. If that is the case then it is probably advisable to get more exercise and outdoor activity in general which would better prepare you for a full day of zoo touring.

That said, you may better seek qualified medical advise than from unqualified people here like me :)

1. Exercise more in general
2. Drink LOTS of water
3. Sun umbrella
4. Large brim hat
5. Use a mister-fan
6. Take frequent breaks in air-conditioning if possible
7. Take a slower pace
 
Mossman Joe said:
I've taken a few whole-day excursions to zoos now and the same problem arises every time, I get dizzy by the end of the day and have to rest until tomorrow as the dizziness disappears after a good night sleep.

I'm pretty sure now that this happens due to me being exposed to the sun for a longer time than I usually do, so during my last zoo trip I decided to properly prep myself to hopefully prevent this from happening again. I applied sunscreen, had myself an umbrella, actively kept myself hydrated throughout the day, and consciously prevented myself from running or doing anything strenuous, and yet, I still got dizzy by the end of the day.

I acknowledge that there might be other factors at play. I live in a tropical country and the hot and humid air seems to sap my strength much faster. I might also have a naturally weak constitution which could be alleviated by exercise(?).

In short, do you all have a favorite method of preventing heat exhaustion during a zoo-trip?
Click to expand...

I am very prone to heat exhaustion. Staying hydrated is one of the biggest parts. Drink more than you think you need. There are electrolyte packs and things you can get to add to water that might help. Drink cool water if possible - not ice cold, that can shock your system. Try to stay in the shade and take frequent breaks to rest (in the shade or in AC!). Have a cooling cloth that you can put on your neck, forehead, and/or armpits, those are the best spots. Know where the bathrooms are - for a splash of water and to fill up a bottle. Know where first aid is, and don't hesitate to ask for help! Basically, do everything in excess - take more breaks than you think you need, drink more than you think you need. Don't force yourself to complete a place, either. That one is hard for me, especially when I sometimes drive 5+ hours each way for a day trip, but getting sick over it will ruin the trip, anyway.
 
8. Visit zoos in Northern countries during autumn and winter. Unless you wear too many layers of clothes, no heat exhaustion. Guaranteed.;)
 
Are there times of the year where the temps are a little cooler? If so, you might want to reserve most of your zoo trips for those days. I go to zoos less frequently in the summer. And take lots of breaks. I have to force myself to take breaks or I run myself ragged without realizing it.
 
Mossman Joe said:
I've taken a few whole-day excursions to zoos now and the same problem arises every time, I get dizzy by the end of the day and have to rest until tomorrow as the dizziness disappears after a good night sleep.

I'm pretty sure now that this happens due to me being exposed to the sun for a longer time than I usually do, so during my last zoo trip I decided to properly prep myself to hopefully prevent this from happening again. I applied sunscreen, had myself an umbrella, actively kept myself hydrated throughout the day, and consciously prevented myself from running or doing anything strenuous, and yet, I still got dizzy by the end of the day.

I acknowledge that there might be other factors at play. I live in a tropical country and the hot and humid air seems to sap my strength much faster. I might also have a naturally weak constitution which could be alleviated by exercise(?).

In short, do you all have a favorite method of preventing heat exhaustion during a zoo-trip?
Click to expand...
I would say for you, staying cool is more important than staying hydrated. I see that you're from Indonesia, so the heat and humidity does affect a lot more. I honestly think some of the tips people offering are not as useful for you (for example, taking frequently break of air conditioning may actually lead to an inverse response to what you want, since the humidity mean your sweat don't evaporate as much ,and going in and out of air conditioning may get you even more sick)
I would say, get a cold towel along your neck, drink more water, bought an ice cream/icicle/cold watermelon if you can. Most importantly, don't force yourself. Take frequent breaks, don't take breaks only when you feel dizzy.
When I go on full day in July/August (i would say the climate in HK summer is similar if not same to those in tropical region), I always get a iced bottle before going, and it would be in a heat-proof bottle so the ice won't melt for a few hours.
 
This is a year old thread, though I still like to share my own experience.

For me, just have a drink atleast every few minutes and took some minutes of rest, preferably in exhibits you liked to better enjoy the time or sites that have shelters and bench. I think like most here said, having prior active sport activity is recommended, as I usually jogged so I honestly don't really mind walking long distances. Though if you have medical conditions that prevent you from doing these, then don't force yourself and always regularly took a rest.

Additionaly, just bring stuffs that you feel like you really need. Of course, I mostly only bring my camera bag (Aside from camera and several lenses, it also include other camera accessories), hat, tumbler, phone charger, and power bank as well as of course my phone, wallet, and personal keys.
 
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