Summer weather brings plenty of fun, but it can also be dangerous. The body usually does a good job of cooling itself, but when things go awry, it can quickly turn into an emergency. It’s important to be prepared.
Learn more about heat stroke and how to keep yourself safe in the summer heat.
What is Heat Stroke?
Heat-related illnesses are serious. Heat stroke, the most severe heat-related illness, can even be life-threatening. When a person has heat stroke, the body’s core temperature rises higher than 105 degrees, which can lead to organ failure, brain damage, and death.
What Are the Signs of Heat Stroke?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, heat stroke is characterized by one or a combination of the following symptoms:
- Red, hot and dry skin that isn’t sweating
- Rapid heart beat
- Severe headache
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Confusion
- Unconsciousness
Heat stroke is an emergency. If you think someone has heat stroke, call 911 immediately and go to the nearest emergency room.
While waiting for help to arrive, get the affected person into the shade and start cooling them down with water and ice packs.
How to Stay Safe in the Heat
Taking preventative measures to stay safe in the summer heat could mean the difference between life or death. Follow these easy tips to mitigate your risk of suffering from a heat-related illness:
- Shield yourself from the sun: Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing and a wide-brimmed hat. Avoid wearing dark colors, which attract more heat. Use sunscreen with SPF 30 or more to protect your skin. See more tips for protecting yourself from the sun.
- Drink plenty of fluids: During heavy exercise, drink two to four glasses of fluids every hour. Avoid exercising outside during periods of extreme heat. If you must exercise outside in these conditions, substitute an electrolyte-rich sports drink for water.
- Limit time outside: Try to limit your outdoor activity to the coolest times of the day, either early morning or in the evening. If you must be outside during these times, try to rest in shady areas periodically to cool down.
- Monitor at-risk individuals: While everyone can be susceptible to heat-related illnesses, some people are more vulnerable than others. Those at greatest risk include infants and young children; people 65 and older; people who are overweight; people who overexert themselves; and those with chronic illnesses such as heart disease or high blood pressure or who are taking certain medications.
