Heat Related Illness

With the return of warmer weather, Alberta Health Services EMS would like to remind citizens to stay safe in the heat and sun this summer. While children and the elderly can be more susceptible to the effects of heat, basic prevention measures should be taken by all to avoid a heat related illness during periods of hot and humid weather.

Heat exhaustion First aid • Heat exhaustion can occur due to • First aid for all heat related excessive fluid loss during periods illness begins with removing or of prolonged sweating in a hot and / sheltering the patient from the or humid environment (indoors or hot environment. outdoors). • Remove excess or tight fitting • Patients may suffer headaches, clothing and allow them to rest in weakness, fatigue, nausea / a cool environment. vomiting, thirst, chills, and profuse • If the patient is conscious and sweating. alert, provide suitable fluids such • The patient is usually cold and as water, juice, or a sports drink. • If you are concerned, seek damp to the touch and the skin may appear pale or dusky gray. medical attention or call 9-1-1.

Heat stroke Prevention • Stay well-hydrated by drinking • Heat stroke is a medical emergency plenty of water. that requires prompt treatment. It can be fatal. • Limit alcohol consumption as alcohol dehydrates you. • It occurs when the body can’t cool • Always wear a broad brimmed itself naturally (e.g. perspiration). The hat to keep the sun off your face body’s temperature will continue to and neck. rise to dangerous levels. • Apply waterproof sunscreen with • Due to severe dehydration and the an SPF of 50+, especially for inability to sweat the patient may children. The sun’s UV rays appear flushed and skin may be hot peak between 10am-4pm, even and dry to the touch. on cloudy days.