Meet Manny Flores, a 30-year UPS Circle of Honor driver and a proud member of his building’s safety committee. For two decades, he’s been a trusted voice in promoting safety and stressing the importance of self-care to his co-workers.
“Deseo ayudar a los conductores a entender que con el calor no se juega”, señala Manny. “Hay que mantenerse hidratado y cuidarse”.
Extreme Heat? Manny’s got it beat with these safety tips
With over 3,000 days of working in the summer weather of Mesa, Arizona, Manny uses his extensive experience to mentor others on how to stay safe.
“Prepararse para las condiciones climáticas es, aquí en Arizona, un compromiso 24/7, comenta Manny. “Just like any athlete, we must prepare. Si uno no se prepara, nos va a alcanzar muy rápidamente”.
Good looking out
With kids of his own, Manny feels a paternal responsibility toward the younger drivers he works with, sharing advice on everything from the dangers of energy drinks to taking it easy on days off.
“Yo los cuido”, indica Manny. “Les digo que las bebidas energéticas contribuyen a las lesiones relacionadas con el calor. Start preparing for the job the day before and stay hydrated all week. Que coman alimentos adecuados y que tomen descansos”, agrega.
Crafted over time
With years of experience under his belt at UPS, Manny remains committed to his job and continues to prepare diligently every day.
“Las pequeñas cosas aportan”, comparte. “Lo importante son las pequeñas cosas”. This is why UPS dedicated over 8 million hours to employee safety training in 2024 alone. Educating all employees, even management and supervisors, is critical to preventing injuries.
What’s the best way to beat heat stress and stay cool as a delivery driver?
Hydration. And according to the experts who helped develop UPS's health and safety program, Recharge, nothing beats water. Not only does it keep you hydrated, but it helps your body maintain a normal temperature. While caffeinated drinks, such as energy drinks, can give you an immediate boost, water benefits your mood, energy levels and cognition throughout the day.
As part of UPS's Recharge program, we regularly share follow-up training and reminders with employees about the importance of:
- Proper rest and taking care of yourself before, during and after work
- Comer alimentos saludables e hidratarse durante todo el día
- Tomar descansos adicionales siempre que sean necesarios
- Reconocer los signos y síntomas del golpe de calor