In 2020, more than 2,000 U.S. service members experienced heat stroke or heat exhaustion. Such injuries pose a “significant and persistent threat to both the health of U.S. military members and the effectiveness of military operations,” according to a recent military health report. Young or inexperienced recruits are especially vulnerable.
A new device from Lincoln Laboratory can now alert trainees when they are heading toward injury. The device continuously estimates a person’s core body temperature to determine their risk level for heat strain as they train. This risk is communicated on a smartwatch display, providing early warning to its wearer.