Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are not the same
| Pattern | Common signs | First actions |
|---|---|---|
| Heat exhaustion | Headache, nausea, dizziness, weakness, irritability, thirst, heavy sweating, elevated temperature, reduced urine | Move to a cool place, loosen or remove unnecessary clothing, cool with wet cloths or cold packs, give frequent sips of cool water if fully alert and able to swallow, obtain medical evaluation when indicated |
| Heat stroke | Confusion, slurred speech, altered mental status, loss of consciousness, seizures, very high temperature, hot skin that may be dry or sweaty | Call 911, begin rapid active cooling, stay with the person, monitor breathing and responsiveness, do not give anything by mouth if not fully alert |
Heat emergency response
- 01
Stop activity and move the person away from the heat to shade, air conditioning, or the coolest available location.
- 02
Call 911 immediately for confusion, slurred speech, seizures, fainting with concerning symptoms, unresponsiveness, or suspected heat stroke.
- 03
Remove excess outer clothing and equipment.
- 04
Begin active cooling with cool water, wet cloths, a cool bath when safely available, and cold wet cloths or ice to the head, neck, armpits, and groin while following dispatcher guidance.
- 05
For a fully alert person with possible heat exhaustion who can swallow, give frequent small sips of cool water and continue cooling.
- 06
Monitor breathing and responsiveness and do not leave the person alone.
Build heat readiness before the event
Know the location
Identify cooling centers, air-conditioned public spaces, shaded rest points, and the fastest EMS access.
Use a work-rest-water plan
Increase rest, hydration, acclimatization, and monitoring as heat and workload rise.
Watch medications and conditions
Ask a clinician or pharmacist how heat, dehydration, or power loss affects personal medicines and medical devices.
Use a buddy system
Heat illness can impair judgment. Pair people so changes in speech, behavior, coordination, and performance are noticed early.
Heat illness references
Medical guidance and product instructions can change. Recheck the official source and follow emergency services, clinicians, and current labels.
Heat illness FAQ
Does a person have to stop sweating to have heat stroke?
No. Skin may be dry or sweaty. Altered mental status after heat exposure is the critical emergency warning.
Should I wait for an exact temperature before calling 911?
No. Do not delay emergency care for a temperature reading when the person has altered mental status or other severe signs.
Can a confused person drink water?
Do not give anything by mouth to a person who is confused, unconscious, vomiting repeatedly, or unable to swallow safely.