Summer is the season for working and playing outdoors at IUP. It’s also the time to emphasize the importance of preventing and treating heat-related illnesses.
Heat-related illnesses peak from June through August each year as the US experiences its highest temperatures.
The lists five different types of heat illness:
- Heat stroke: a life-threatening illness in which body temperature may rise above 103° F in minutes
- Heat exhaustion: an illness that can precede heatstroke
- Heat cramps: muscle pains or spasms that happen during heavy exercise
- Sunburn: painful, red and warm skin, possible blisters
- Heat rash: skin irritation from excessive sweating
Heat stroke and heat exhaustion are the two most dangerous conditions—call 911 immediately if heat stroke is suspected.
Signs of heat stroke are:
- High body temperature, above 103 degrees
- Hot, red, dry skin
- Rapid and strong pulse
- Dizziness
- Possible unconsciousness
- Nausea
- Confusion
Call 911, and move the person to a cooler environment. Reduce the person’s body temperature with cool cloths or even a bath, but do not give fluids.
Symptoms of heat exhaustion are:
- Heavy sweating
- Weakness
- Cold, pale, clammy skin
- Fast, weak pulse
- Nausea or vomiting
- Fainting
- Muscle cramps
Move the person to a cooler location and have them lie down while loosening their clothing. Apply wet, cool cloths to as much of the body as possible, and have them sip water.
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