prepares a pilot against hypothermia if forced down in cold  temperatures.  Before approaching the WSC aircraft, a pilot must take  a moment to reflect upon current medical, physical, and  psychological conditions. During this time, a pilot should  evaluate his or her ability to conduct the fl ight considering  self, passenger, and people and property on the ground.  Using the “I’M SAFE” checklist is a smart way to start a  prefl ight before getting to the WSC aircraft. Prior to fl ight,  assess overall fitness as well as the aircraft’s airworthiness.  [Figure 1-22] This chapter provides basic knowledge that is essential for  WSC pilots and should serve as a starting point for them.  However, there are many other handbooks, advisories, and  regulations with which all WSC pilots should become familiar  as their maturity within the aeronautical realm increases  and/or the need for greater depth of understanding becomes  necessary due to location, temperature, altitude, etc.  Chapter Summary Medical Summary Flight Fitness | The “I’m Safe” Checklist Illness  Do I have an illness or any symptoms of  an illness? Medication Have I been taking prescription or  over-the-counter drugs? Stress  Am I under psychological pressure from my job? Worried about financial matters, health  problems, or family discord? Alcohol Have I been drinking within eight hours?  Within 24 hours? Fatigue Am I tired and not adequately rested? Eating Am I adequately nourished? I M S A F E Figure 1-22. Prior to flight, a pilot should assess overall fitness. 1-14