Bonitas Member Magazine December 2016 | Page 22

BEAT THE HEAT With temperatures set to soar this summer and most of the country already experiencing a heatwave this year, heatstroke is a distinct possibility. Learn how to recognise the signs and know what to do if it affects you or your loved ones. What is a heatstroke? Who is at risk? Heat stroke is caused by high temperatures. It is one of the most serious forms of heat damage as it damages the brain and internal organs leading to death. It is a result of milder, heat-related illness such as heat cramps, heat syncope (fainting), and heat exhaustion. Anyone is at risk, but who are more exposed to the heat like construction workers, engineers and street vendors are more likely to be affected. This year in January alone ,eleven people were reported to have died from heatstroke. During extreme heat the temperatures in your car could be deadly! Page 21 Bonitas Member Magazine 2016 Issue 4