Things to help heat stroke

Heat stroke occurs when the body cannot control its temperature after intense heat exposure or exertion. Confusion, unusual behaviour, faintness, a very hot body, seizure, or loss of consciousness are warning signs. Sweating may be present or absent, so a dry skin surface does not rule it out. Heat exhaustion can worsen into heat stroke; see the guidance on Heat Exhaustion for comparison.

Call emergency services, then begin cooling. Place the person on their side if they are drowsy or vomiting, and keep the airway clear. Use a cool shower, bath, wet towels, or a hose if available, while continuing to monitor breathing. Do not give drinks to someone confused, drowsy, unconscious, or having a seizure. Medical teams may use IV Fluid Therapy when fluids and close monitoring are needed.

Treat any suspected heat stroke as an emergency, especially with confusion, collapse, seizure, severe weakness, or inability to drink. Emergency assessment is also needed when vomiting continues or the person does not improve promptly with cooling. Fever-like symptoms after heat exposure can be serious; read more about Fever without delaying emergency help.

Ask which heat exposures or medicines may increase risk, how to plan cooling during outdoor activity, and when normal activity is safe again. Mention any vomiting, fainting, confusion, or medical conditions that were present.