Take heat related precautions while searching for diamonds
Southwest Arkansas has already had a preview of summer like temperatures this month, and while the Crater of Diamonds State Park is one of the area’s more popular attractions, searching for diamonds in the summer, presents challenges.
The diamond search area is a large, open field with limited shade. While trees, wash pavilions, and sun shelters offer some relief, park officials recommend wearing a hat and sunscreen while searching for diamonds on sunny days. Portable fans and misters can help you keep cool, as well. Families staying several hours may also set up tents or canopies in the diamond search area. All temporary structures must be properly secured to the ground and removed before the diamond search area closes each day.
Hydration is another important consideration for keeping cool in summer. The park provides water fountains and bottle-filling stations at the Diamond Discovery Center and wash pavilions in the search area. We also encourage visitors to bring bottled water and ice chests to help them cool off. Drinking water regularly before, during, and after diamond searching can help prevent dehydration.
On hot summer days, it is easy to become hyper-focused on finding a diamond and ignore the signs and symptoms of heat-related illness until it is too late. Set a timer to remind yourself to take breaks and check how you feel. If you’re doing a lot of walking, sit in the shade to cool off five to ten minutes every half hour. If you’re sitting on the ground or in the sun for a long time, get up and move around at least once an hour to improve circulation and help your body cool down.
Guests who have experienced heat exhaustion or heat stroke before may be more prone to repeated heat-related illness. Pay special attention to older and younger guests in your party, to make sure they are staying cool and hydrated. Check the side effects of your medication for any cautions against heat or sun exposure. It’s always better to postpone your visit until cooler weather than risk a health hazard for the chance of finding a diamond!
