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.