What should you know about got a heat stroke?

Heat stroke happens when the body can no longer control its temperature after heat exposure, strenuous activity or both. Confusion, unusual behaviour, fainting, a seizure, severe weakness, hot skin and a very high temperature can occur. Sweating may be present or absent, so do not wait for dry skin before acting. Heat exhaustion is a less severe heat illness, but it can worsen if cooling and fluids do not help.

Call emergency services and stay with the person. Move them into shade or an air-conditioned place, remove excess clothing, and cool the skin with water, wet cloths, fans or cold packs wrapped in fabric. Place cold packs near the neck, armpits and groin if available. If they are awake and able to swallow, offer small sips of water; never force drinks into someone who is confused, vomiting or unconscious. Do not give medicines or alcohol as a substitute for cooling.

Seek emergency help immediately for confusion, collapse, seizure, difficulty breathing, severe headache, repeated vomiting or inability to drink after heat exposure. Do not leave the person alone or drive them yourself if they are drowsy or confused. Even after the skin feels cooler, medical assessment is needed because overheating can affect the brain, kidneys and other organs.

Ask what may have triggered the episode, whether any medicines increase heat sensitivity, how to return safely to activity, and which warning signs should prompt another emergency call.