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Heat Related Emergencies
- 1. Heat Related Emergencies StayingSafe and Knowing the Signs
- 2. Heat Emergenciesusually occur when someone has exercised too much in hot weather, or have been confined/trapped in a place that heats up. Children and the elderly are more prone to heat related emergencies. Check in frequently with older family members and friends to make sure they have properly running AC systems Never leave children in the car alone, not even for a minute! Check on children frequently while playing outside to make sure they are getting plenty of fluids.
- 3. What are heatEmergencies? A Health crises caused by exposure to high temperatures and the sun. Occur in 3 stages Heat Cramps Heat Exhaustion Heat Stroke
- 4. Heat Cramps Firststage in a heat emergency Typically happens to those who have been physically active in the heat, but can also occur in those who haven't. Signs of heat cramps: Muscle pain Muscle tightness
- 5. First Aid: Restin a shady, cool area, out of direct sunlight Drink plenty of cool water – avoid ice cold/cold water as it may restrict blood flow Gently massage the cramping muscle, encourage gently stretching the muscle. Wait a few hours before returning to strenuous activity Seek medical attention if cramps do not go away
- 6. Heat Exhaustion Thesecond stage in a heat emergency Symptoms include (but are not limited to): Muscle Cramps Dizziness Headache Irritability Extreme thirst Nausea/vomiting Pale Skin Heavy Sweating Fainting
- 7. First Aid: Sitor lie down in a cool shady area, out of direct sunlight Loosen clothing Apply plenty of cool, wet towels to face, neck, chest and limbs Drink plenty of cool water – be sure not to drink too fast! Do not return to strenuous activity Seek emergency care if signs and symptoms persist or worsen
- 8. Heat Stroke Themost severe stage of heat emergencies All signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion may be present, plus: Body Temperature over 105 F Irrational Behavior Confusion Rapid, shallow breathing Rapid, weak pulse Seizures Loss of Consciousness The Red Cross notes that a person who is experiencing heat stroke might have skin that feels very dry from dehydration!
- 9. First aid: HEATSTROKE IS A LIFE-THREATENING EMERGENCY! CALL 9-1-1 IMMEDIATELY! While waiting for help: Move the person to a cooler area, out of direct sunlight Loosen clothing – remove any sweaty clothing Apply cool, wet towels to the face, neck, chest and limbs Apply ice (if available) to the underarms, neck, and groin Offer cool water/sports drinks if person in conscious – be sure not to drink too fast! Stay with the person until help arrives!
- 10. Preventing Heat Emergencies Wear light, loose clothing Acclimate to hot conditions slowly, and rest as often as possible Avoid exercise during the hottest part of the day Avoid alcohol Stay well hydrated
- 11. Please remember! Heatemergencies affect pets too! Do not keep pets in closed in hot areas (car, kennel, patios) Make sure pets have plenty of cool water to drink! Be aware of the signs!