WARNING During extreme heat the temperature in your car could be deadly !
Symptoms of heatstroke include :
• High body temperature especially above 40˚C
• Dizziness and light-headedness
• Lack of sweating , despite the hot weather
• Red , hot and dry flushed skin
• Muscle weakness or cramps
• Nausea and vomiting
• Rapid heartbeat , which may be either strong or weak
• Behavioural changes such as confusion , disorientation or staggering
• Unconsciousness
• Rapid , shallow breathing
• Throbbing headache
• Seizures
What to do if someone has heatstroke
• Get them to lie down in a cool place
• Remove any unnecessary clothing to expose as much of their skin as possible
• Cool their skin – use water , wet towels , ice packs
• Fan their skin while it ’ s moist
• Get them to drink fluids
• If the person is unconscious , you should follow the steps above and place the person in the recovery position until help arrives . If they have a seizure , move nearby objects out of the way to prevent injury
• Call the emergency services ( ER24 on 084 124 ) if they are unconscious and / or are having a seizure .
Heatstroke can be prevented
• Avoid strenuous physical activity outdoors during the hottest hours of the day ( Between 10am and 3pm )
• Avoid over exposure to the sun
• Wear light clothes , a hat and take a cool bath or shower once or twice a day
• Stay well hydrated - but be careful not to over-hydrate
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Bonitas Member Magazine Issue 4 | 2021