Let's have a fun and safe Bloomsday: four tips from a Bloomsday first aid volunteer!
Bloomsday is just around the corner! We know many people in our community are ready to lace up their shoes, pin on their bibs, and head downtown to take on Spokane's biggest road race. Whether you're a seasoned Bloomie or this is your first time participating, it's always good to brush up on a few health and safety tips so you can perform your best and avoid issues on the course. That's why we sat down with Lonnie, a volunteer from the Medical Reserve Corp of Spokane County (MRC), to talk about what issues they see most during Bloomsday and what tips they would offer all participants getting excited to run or walk this year.
First things first, what's the MRC? The MRC consists of volunteers who assist in responding to local, regional, or national emergencies and disasters. They also engage in local health-related programs and community events like Bloomsday and Hoopfest. The MRC of Spokane County has had a first aid station at Bloomsday for the last seven years, and each year it is staffed with volunteers who are ready to assist participants with their first aid needs. We're thankful to have volunteers committed to ensuring the good health of all runners and walkers on race day! Now, what are some things to keep in mind before Bloomsday? Hear more from Lonnie.
1. How long have you been a volunteer for the MRC?
A. I joined the MRC in 2020 when there was a need for volunteers to help vaccinate people against COVID-19. As part of the MRC of Spokane County, I volunteered at Hoopfest's medical tent sponsored by MultiCare, and last year I volunteered at the first aid tent for Bloomsday. It was a pleasant and rewarding experience!
2. What is the most common issue you see at Bloomsday and what tips would you offer to help prevent it?
A. You might be surprised to learn that the most popular handout we offered last year was Vaseline for dry lips and irritated skin! One of the best ways to protect your skin for race day is to check for clothing that rubs in the wrong places before you leave the house or consider walking or running in the clothes you plan to wear for race day beforehand.
This can let you know if your race day attire might cause irritation, chafing, or other skin problems. It's also a good idea to consider bringing a ChapStick you can fit in a side pocket or running belt in case there is no first-aid tent near you when dry or cracked lips strike!
3. What are three important ways people can prepare for Bloomsday?
A. • Walk or run to prepare for the course before the date of the race. Conditioning your body for a long walk or run can help prevent injuries and give your body time to adjust to working out for a longer period of time.
• Stay hydrated before racing, including the days leading up to the race, and don’t forget to stop for water along the course to prevent dehydration.
• Dress appropriately to stay warm in the morning. While it might be spring, we are still experiencing cooler temperatures, so don't forget to dress in a few light layers. You can always take them off when you start to warm up, but it's a good idea to stay warm to prevent injuries and help your body prepare to run or walk.
4. What are some things you offer at the first aid station that people might not know about?
A. The MRC first aid station tent isn't just for grabbing a band aid to cover up a cut or scratch. We also offer fluids, basic snacks, gauze, sunscreen, Vaseline, acetaminophen, ibuprofen, ice packs, oxygen, ace bandages, wheelchairs, access to emergency service and a place to sit out of the sun! Don't hesitate to stop by if you think you might need something from the first aid station to get you through the rest of the course.
5. Do you have tips or things to keep in mind for families with smaller children participating in the race?
A. Children are more vulnerable to temperature issues, dehydration, and the effects of sun exposure. Encourage kids to drink fluids, like water, before race day and during the race to prevent dehydration. Plus, don't forget to apply sunscreen and dress them in a few layers so they can stay warm while you wait at the start line.
Let’s have a fun and safe Bloomsday!
Keeping everyone safe and healthy during Bloomsday is SRHD's and the MRC of Spokane County's top priority. Even if you have a walk or race plan in place, things can happen that might require you to stop by a first aid tent, and that's okay! The MRC is there to help you, your family, and every Bloomie make the most of their Bloomsday experience. It's also a good idea to know where other first aid stations can be found throughout the course in case you need to stop by one. The MRC station is on Lindeke Street near Holmes Elementary, and MRC volunteers will also be helping at two of the CHAS stations located just before Doomsday Hill and near the finish line. Happy Bloomsday!
MRC volunteers at last year's Bloomsday first aid station.