In hot temperatures your body may be unable to properly cool itself, leading to serious health problems. Here are some tips for how to avoid, spot, and treat symptoms of heat stroke and heat exhaustion.

Avoid

When the temperature is very high stay indoors. If you must go outside, dress properly and take breaks often. Know who is at high risk for heat stroke and heat exhaustion.

Tips to beat the heat:

• Drink plenty of water.
• Check on friends and neighbors at high risk for heat-related illness.
• Find air-conditioned places to cool off (e.g., shopping malls, libraries, etc.).
• NEVER leave kids or pets in a closed, parked vehicle.
• Wear a hat and lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing.
• Always use sunscreen (SPF 15 or higher).
• Limit your time outdoors and take breaks often.

Know who is at high risk:

• Infants
• Young children
• Older adults
• People with chronic medical conditions

Spot

Know the signs of heat stroke and heat exhaustion.

Heat stroke signs and symptoms:

• Very high body temperature (above 103°F)
• Red, hot, and dry skin (no sweating)
• Rapid, strong pulse
• Throbbing headache
• Dizziness
• Upset stomach
• Confusion
• Passing out

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Heat exhaustion signs and symptoms:

• Heavy sweating
• Paleness
• Muscle cramps
• Tiredness
• Weakness
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Upset stomach or vomiting
• Fainting

If you see any of these signs, get medical help immediately!

Treat

While waiting for medical attention, you can help someone with heat stroke or heat exhaustion.

Heat stroke

Move the victim to a shady area or indoors. Do not give the person fluids. Cool the body by:

• Placing the person in a cool (not cold) bath or shower
• Spraying with a garden hose
• Sponging with cool water
• Fanning

Continue efforts to cool the person until help arrives or his or her body temperature falls below 102°F and stays there.

Heat exhaustion

Get medical attention if symptoms get worse or last longer than one hour. Cool the body with:

• Cool, nonalcoholic beverages
• Rest
• A cool (not cold) bath, shower, or sponge bath
• Moving to an air-conditioned room
• Wearing lightweight clothing

Get medical help immediately if symptoms are severe or if the victim has heart problems or high blood pressure!

For more information on extreme heat and your health, visit the CDC website or download our heat-related injury and illness prevention checklist.