Environmental

Environmental Conditions,
Clothing and Hydration

 

Front Sight Nevada Average Highs, Lows and Rainfall

 

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg. High (ºF)	57	62	67	84	90	94	102	100	97	90	66	57
Avg. Low (ºF)	29	35	38	42	51	59	67	65	56	44	35	29
Avg. Precip. (Inches)	0.60	0.60	0.60	0.40	0.20	0.10	0.40	0.50	0.30	0.20	0.50	0.40

 

• Sun and Sunburn:

The sun almost always shines in southern Nevada. Sunscreen is a must all year, regardless of the temperatures. By “sunscreen” we mean the potent stuff, such as SPF 45 or more. Apply it liberally and be happy at the end of the day! A large-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses are also advisable.

 

• Clothing Suggestions – Firearms Courses:

Wear casual clothes that you will be comfortable in all day. Dress in layers. Layering allows you the greatest flexibility to stay comfortable as the temperature changes throughout the day. If you plan to attend a handgun course, make sure you can tuck in your sweater or other garment such that it won’t interfere with the weapon and holster. Pants should be equipped with belt loops and pockets. A sturdy belt is also a must. In the cooler months, sweaters, sweatshirts, or jackets are advisable.

 

• Clothing Suggestions – Martial Arts Courses:

The Martial Arts, Empty Hand Defense, and Edged Weapons courses are generally conducted indoors on high-quality mats. Dress comfortably in athletic-type clothes.

 

• Clothing Suggestions – Rope and Rappel Courses:

The rope and rappelling courses are conducted outdoors on the rappelling tower and ropes facilities. Dress comfortably in clothes which are appropriate for the season. Shorts and T-shirts are generally preferred during the warm months. Long pants and jackets or sweat shirts are generally preferred for the cool months. Hiking boots or work boots are the best footwear for rappelling but athletic shoes will suffice. Do not wear excessively baggy or loose-fitting clothing or jewelry because they represent a hazard when working with ropes. Similarly, long hair should be kept in a ponytail (or similar configuration) to keep it away from ropes and hardware. Bring a pair of simple leather work gloves to protect your hands.

 

• Adverse Weather Conditions:

We continue your training rain or shine, literally. We pride ourselves in giving you the opportunity to train in “combat conditions” at no extra charge! It doesn’t rain often at Front Sight but if the forecast calls for rain, a hooded rain jacket will greatly increase your comfort. In the winter months, gloves and a warm hat may also be welcome. Wind is common all year at Front Sight. Wind adds to the chill during the winter months, so dress accordingly. If you wear contacts, bring your prescription glasses also.

 

• Footwear:

Comfortable tennis shoes, running shoes, or hiking boots are well suited for your course at Front Sight. You do not need heavy-duty, military-style boots.

 

Proper Hydration

 

• The Nevada high desert is an environment which is subject to severe heat and lack of humidity during the summer months. Functioning in this environment requires certain procedures be followed in order to prevent dehydration and heatstroke.
• Proper hydration cannot be accomplished by reacting to the body when it is thirsty. Hydration must be accomplished in advance of exposure to heat and dryness. The following is a protocol to assure proper hydration and electrolyte balance which is essential for peak performance in a hot, arid environment.
• Begin hydrating the night before by drinking water regularly during the course of the evening. Eight to ten ounces every half hour is adequate. A good measure is to check your urine to monitor that the color remains clear.
• Prior to reporting to the range, drink a quart of water. Half strength Gatorade (half water half Gatorade) is better than just water. Eat a banana with your breakfast and refrain from caffeine. Alcohol the night before and in the evenings after the course will dehydrate you, so it is not advised.
• During the day, drink water regularly between shooting relays and stay in the shade as much as possible. If you begin to feel weak or dizzy, or begin to get confused and notice your coordination disappearing, this is the beginning of dehydration and possibly heatstroke. Immediately seek shade and notify an instructor.
• We give you this information in advance knowing that if you follow it you are much less likely to have any problems with the heat. Do not take the attitude that since you are accustomed to the heat you need not follow the strict protocol outlined above. Those who have come before you can testify to dropping (literally) before the end of the course because they did not follow these simple but effective procedures.

 

Note: Cardiovascular conditions, kidney dysfunction, and digestive disorders make it more difficult for your body to maintain proper temperature, hydration, and electrolyte balance. Certain prescription medications such as antibiotics, Beta Blockers, and blood pressure medications can also reduce your tolerance to heat. If you have these conditions or are taking these prescription medications, you require even closer monitoring to prevent dehydration and heatstroke.