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Heat Tips
Signs and symptoms of heat emergencies:
Heat Exhaustion:   
  • Cool, moist, pale or flushed skin 
  • Heavy sweating 
  • Headache 
  • Nausea or vomiting 
  • Dizziness 
  • Exhaustion 
  • Body temperature will be near normal.
Heat Stroke
  • Hot, red skin 
  • Changes in consciousness 
  • Rapid, weak pulse
  • Rapid, shallow breathing 
  • Body temperature can be very high. Sometimes as high as 105º F.
  • If the person was sweating from heavy work or exercise, skin may be wet; otherwise, it will feel dry.

Treatment for Heat Emergencies:
Heat Cramps 

  • Get the person to a cooler place and have him or her rest in a comfortable position. 
  • Lightly stretch the affected muscle and replenish fluids. 
  • Give a half glass of cool water every 15 minutes. 
  • Electrolyte replacement fluids should be diluted by at least half with water.  Do not give liquids with alcohol or caffeine in them, as they can make conditions worse.
Heat Exhaustion 
  • Get the person out of the heat and into a cooler place. 
  • Remove or loosen tight clothing and apply cool, wet cloths, such as towels or sheets. 
  • If the person is conscious, give cool water to drink. 
  • Make sure the person drinks slowly. 
  • Give a half glass of cool water every 15 minutes. 
  • Do not give liquids that contain alcohol or caffeine. 
  • Let the victim rest in a comfortable position and watch carefully for changes in his or her condition.
Heat Stroke
  • Call 911! 
  • Move the person to a cooler place. 
  • Quickly cool the body. 
  • Immerse victim in a cool bath, or wrap wet sheets around the body and fan it. 
  • Watch for signs of breathing problems.
    Keep the person lying down and continue to cool the body any way you can. 
  • If the victim refuses water, is vomiting, or there are changes in the level of consciousness, do not give anything to eat or drink.

 

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