Heat stroke is a life-threatening heat-induced illness that occurs when the core body temperature rises above 40° C after prolonged exposure to excessive or unaccustomed heat. It is a severe form of hyperthermia.
Signs and symptoms
- Collapse
- Dehydration
- Elevated body temperature above 40° C
- Hot dry skin
- Intense thirst
- Lack of sweating
- Altered state of consciousness
Management
- Primary assessment (follow DRSABCD):
- send for help, additional resources (cold packs, AED) and request an ambulance
- provide CPR if required
- apply an AED and follow its prompts if the person is unconscious and not breathing normally.
- While waiting for the ambulance to arrive for individuals over 5 years of age:
- Immerse (i.e., whole-body from the neck down) in cold water (a bath if possible, as cold as possible) for 15 minutes. This is the most effective method of cooling. If this is not available, a combination of the following methods should be used:
- Wet the person with cold or cool water, under a shower if safe, or with a hose or other water source
- Apply ice packs (groin, armpits, facial cheeks, palms and soles).
- Repeatedly moisten the skin with a moist cloth or atomizer spray.
- Fan continuously.
- While waiting for the ambulance to arrive for children 5 years of age and under a combination of the following methods should be used:
- Cool in a tepid (lukewarm) bath sponging frequently for 10 minutes. If bath available:
- Repeatedly moisten the skin with a moist cloth or atomizer spray
- Fan continuously
- Monitor the person’s condition and reassure them while waiting for paramedics to arrive.
Note
- Rapidly cool the person as per heat exhaustion treatment if cold water immersion not possible.
- Do NOT give fluids by mouth if the person is unconscious and breathing normally.
- Do NOT give the person any paracetamol used to reduce fever.
- Refer to the latest ARC Guideline for Heat Induced Illness to learn more.
Note for lifesavers on patrol
Lifesavers are often required to spend extended periods of time in hot-weather conditions.
Plan ahead for the heat and avoid experiencing heat exhaustion or hyperthermia by:
- following the sun safety guidelines within the SLSA Environmental Factors Guidelines
- regularly drinking water to stay hydrated
- staying in well-ventilated areas
- wearing a hat while outdoors
- wearing light coloured and loose-fitting clothing, e.g., your patrol uniform
- staying in the shade where possible.