Heat Emergencies

With the temperatures rising it is a good time to remind people about heat emergencies.


Certain people are more susceptible to heat emergencies. Babies, children and the elderly and those with chronic illnesses such as heart diseases are less able to sweat and adjust to changes in temperature.

Those who spend a lot of time in the sun and heat such as outdoor workers need to be aware of how to protect themselves and recognize heat emergencies.

Heat cramps are mild muscle contractions that can become severe. This a first sign that the body's core temperature is rising. Remove the person from the heat and gently cool them down.

Those with heat exhaustion will have a moist skin that is redder or paler than normal. They may also have nausea, dizziness or weakness. Remove the person the heat, fan them to gradually cool them down. They should also take sips of cool water.

In heat stroke the body has lost it's ability to cool itself down. A person will no longer sweat and may exhibit irritable, bizarre or aggressive behaviour. This is a medical emergency and EMS/911 should be called. Since the person can no longer cool themselves down they need to be sponged down with cool water or ice packs.



As an Authorized Training Provider of the Canadian Red Cross, all First Aid Ottawa Standard and Emergency First Aid courses are recognized by WSIB and its Federal counterpart the Canada Labour code. Visit us online at www.FirstAidOttawa.com or at 613-225-2727.