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Dehydration is most frequently associated with those who get a lot of exercise or people who live in extremely hot climates. However, it’s important to remember that it can impact anyone, no matter where they are or what they do – and that includes those working on courier jobs. The problem with dehydration is that it can often sneak up on you. Even if you are drinking when your mouth tells you that you’re thirsty, your body could already be dangerously low on water. And, with the negative side effects that accompany not remaining properly hydrated, it’s especially important for those who spend their days driving to stay on top of their liquid intake. Not only will be helping yourself and feeling better, you could also potentially be saving a life. Signs of Dehydration The most obvious symptoms include a dry mouth and feeling thirsty. However, many others are not as easy to discern. Look for the following signs: • Fatigue • Low mood • Lack of alertness or a fuzzy feeling in your head • Muscle cramps in the toes, legs and fingers • Cloudy, dark urine (this is perhaps the easiest way to gauge if you are drinking enough water – you should aim for it to be pale and nearly clear) The Dangers of Dehydration For those working on courier jobs, it is especially important that you make sure you’re consuming enough liquid. When you’re in control of a vehicle for extended periods of time, it’s important that you’re on top of your game - to ensure not only your own safety, but also that of other drivers on the road. You need to avoid the following situations that can occur when you’re dehydrated: • Improper braking – too late, too early or without good reason • Slow reaction times • Becoming unaware of the other vehicles around you • Drifting between lanes How to Stay Properly Hydrated Luckily, making sure you’re drinking enough doesn’t have to be difficult. Here are some tips that anyone working on courier jobs may find especially helpful. Make them a habit and you can significantly reduce the chances of dehydration. • Drink at least two litres of water a day • Always have multiple bottles of water in your vehicle • Snack on fruit – this is a great alternative way to hydrate yourself • Don’t make excuses that you don’t want to stop for the toilet – factor in enough time so that you can take regular breaks Just because you spend your days in a vehicle doesn’t mean you’re not at risk of dehydration – in fact, one study reports that almost 70% of UK drivers don’t know the signs. Drinking sufficient water is vital for your body, your health and your safety – and soaking up these top tips will make consuming enough liquids a snap. Norman Dulwich is a correspondent for Courier Exchange, the world's largest neutral trading hub for same day courier jobs in the express freight exchange industry. Over 5,300 member companies are networked together through the Exchange to fill empty capacity, get new clients and form long-lasting business relationships.
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