Heat stroke is the least common and most serious of the 3 types of heat emergencies. It occurs when the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion are ignored. When the body can no longer cool itself it gradually stops working resulting in a rapid rise in temperature. Eventually, vital organs such as the brain and kidneys cease to function.

Signs and Symptoms of Heat Stroke

• Elevated body temperature often as high as 106 degrees fahrenheit.
• Irritable, bizarre, or combative behavior.
• Sweating may stop - this is not a good sign.
• Severe headache.
• Red, hot dry skin especially in the elderly.
• Rapid, weak pulse becoming irregular.
• Rapid, shallow breathing.
• Progressive loss of consciousness.

First Aid for Heat Stroke

• Remove the person from the heat source.
• Place in recovery position.
• Contact EMS immediately.
• Monitor and treat ABCs.
• Remove sweaty clothing.
• Fan or otherwise gently cool skin perhaps with cool towels or ice packs.
• Do not douse with cold water - this may cause shock.
• Do not place the person in a tub of water is this may make it hard to maintain an open airway.
• At this point it is too late to give fluids by mouth as it may induce vomiting.