Heat Cramps are the first warning sign that the body is having problems with the heat.

First Aid:

1. Stop activity and rest.
2. Drink small amounts of cool water or a commercial sports drink.
3. GENTLY stretch the cramped muscle. Hold the stretch for 20-30 seconds.
4. Gently massage the muscle. Repeat these steps if necessary.

Heat Exhaustion is caused by blood pooling in the legs due to exposure to temperature conditions your body isn't used to dealing with.

Signs and Symptoms:

• Weakness
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Anxiety
• Cold, pale, clammy skin
• Heavy perspiration
• Disorientation
• Fainting spells
• Weak pulse

First Aid:

1. Get out of the sun or heat.
2. Drink small amounts of cool, slightly salty water or sport beverage every few minutes.
Do not attempt to give fluids to someone who is unconscious!
3. Use cold compresses.
4. DO NOT give fluids containing alcohol or caffeine.
5. DO NOT give medication to reduce fever.
6. If the victim does not begin to improve OR if he gets worse, seek medical attention immediately!

Heat Stroke (a.k.a. "Sunstroke") - caused by the body's inability to get rid of heat and is often the case with rigorous physical activity. Body temperature rises to dangerously high levels. THIS IS A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Prolonged high body temperature can lead to brain damage and even death. SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION IMMEDIATELY!

Signs and Symptoms:

• Headach
• Vertigo or dizziness
• Fatigue
• Red, dry and hot skin
• No sweat (unless the victim has been involved in rigorous activity)
• Strong, rapid or weak/thready
• Rapid or shallow breathing
• Disorientation
• Loss of consciousness
• Seizure/convulsions
• High body temperature (104-106 F)

First Aid: Call 911!

1. Immediately attempt to cool the victim! Remove from heat, wrap in wet clothing or wet sheets and fan vigorously.
2. IF THE PATIENT STARTS TO SHIVER, cooling should be slowed down.
3. DO NOT give the victim any medication to lower fever.
4. DO NOT use an alcohol rub - it closes pores and traps heat.
5. DO NOT attempt to feed the victim anything by mouth.

Prevention

1. Hydration - keep your body well hydrated. Drink plenty of water before, during and after exposure to the elements. Avoid drinks that contain alcohol or caffeine. Water or sport drinks are the best.
2. Ventilation - Stay in an area where there is plenty of airflow and shade. This will help allow your body to naturally cool itself. If indoors, open windows and use a fan or air conditioning on hot days.
3. Clothing - Wear light colored, loose fitting clothing. You can wear a hat initially, but once you feel yourself getting warm, remove any items that are covering your head. Continuing to wear head garments will only keep more heat trapped inside of your body.
4. Limit activity - don't overdue it. Heatstroke can occur quickly. If you get warm or lightheaded, take a time out and rest in the shade.