Symptoms of heatstroke include:
Heatstroke can be prevented
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• 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
Dizziness and light-headedness
Lack of sweating, despite the hot weather
Red, hot and dry 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
• 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
Bonitas Member Magazine 2016 Issue 4
Page 22