Staying Safe While Enjoying Your Summer: How To Prevent Heat Stroke

Summer is in full swing, which means rising temps and heat waves are sweeping the nation. Although you may think you know your limits, heat stroke can strike quickly, with little warning. Harm to the internal organs, and even brain damage can occur if a heat stroke is not quickly and properly dealt with. If you suspect someone is having a heat stroke, or is displaying one or more of the symptoms below, you should call 911 immediately.  

Feeling light-headed or dizzy
Confusion, disorientation, or staggering
Lack of sweat, despite the heat
Red, hot, and unusually dry skin
Throbbing headache
Muscle cramps or weakness
Rapid heartbeat
Trouble breathing
Nausea or vomiting

Seizures, fainting, or even complete loss of consciousness can also occur.
Although people over the age of 50 are more likely to have a heat stroke, healthy young people, are also susceptible.

If someone is having a heat stroke, first call 911, and then get the person to an air-conditioned area, or away from the sun. Getting the body’s internal temperature down is vital to their well-being. You can usually do this by wetting the person’s skin with cool water, putting them in a cool shower, or applying ice packs to their body.

To prevent heat stroke, take these simple, yet effective precautions:

Wear loose-fitting clothing that is light-colored
Wear a wide-brimmed hat
Limit outdoor work or exercise to early mornings or evenings
Take frequent breaks from outdoor activities
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water

Heat stroke is nothing to take lightly and can even be fatal. Take precautions by following the easy tips above, and remember, if you suspect that someone is having a heat stroke, call 911 immediately.  

Stay safe, stay cool, and most of all, enjoy your summer!