What causes heat-related illness?
Heat-related illnesses, such as heat stroke, occur when your body can’t keep itself cool. The body normally cools itself by sweating. As sweat evaporates from the skin, it lowers body temperature. But on hot, humid days, moisture in the air keeps sweat from evaporating fast enough. When this happens, body temperature can rise and you may start to feel sick.
What are some types of heat-related illness?
How are heat-related illnesses treated?
For heat cramps:
For heat exhaustion:
For heat stroke:
Get the victim to a shady or cool area and call emergency medical assistance immediately. Until they arrive, do the following:
Who is at risk for heat-related illnesses?
Anyone at any time can suffer from heat-related illness, but some people are at greater risk than others.
IMPORTANT: If you take prescription medication, ask your doctor if you need to take extra care in hot weather.
What is the “heat index?”
The heat index tells you how it feels outside in the shade. It is not the same as the outside temperature. The heat index is a measurement of how hot it feels when relative humidity is combined with the effects of the air temperature. The National Weather Service will issue a Heat Advisory for a heat index greater than 105°F.
How can I prevent heat-related illnesses?
Hot Weather Tips
Reduce caffeine intake from beverages including coffee, tea, cola and other heavily caffeinated beverages.
Alcoholic beverages and drinks that are high in sugar.
Very cold drinks, as they can cause stomach cramps.
What can I do to prevent hyperthermia and heat stroke for my pets?
See also: Fact Sheet - Heat Emergency Awareness: Hot Weather Tips and Heat-related Illnesses
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