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HEAT EXHAUSTION CAN KILL

What is Heat Illness? The body normally cools itself by sweating. During hot weather, especially with high humidity, sweating isn’t enough. Body temperature can rise to dangerous levels if precautions are not taken such as drinking water frequently and resting in the shade. Heat illnesses range from heat rash and heat cramps to heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Heat stroke requires immediate attention and can result in death. Symptoms of Heat Stroke.

1. No Sweating

2. Rapid Pulse

3. Red, hot dry skin

4. High Temperature

5. Difficulty breathing

6. Confusion

7. Convulsions

8. Fainting

To respond to heat stroke, CALL 000 or go to the closest emergency room. While waiting: • Move the person into the shade or into truck/ute air conditioning. • Elevate their feet higher than their head to reduce the chance of shock. • Remove clothing and attempt to cool them down by wrapping them in a cool, wet sheet or spraying them with cool water and fanning them. • Put ice packs or cold compresses under their arms, on their groin area, and behind their neck. • Give them cool drinks only if they are not disoriented and not vomiting. • Stay with them until Paramedics arrive.

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