Heat illness occurs when heat produced by physical activity combines with that gained from the environment to exceed the heat-losing capacity of the body (ex. by sweating). Normally, the body decreases its temperature in two ways: (1) by increasing blood flow to the body surface, and (2) by sweating that cools by evaporation. When the environmental humidity approaches or reaches 80 percent, evaporation of sweat ceases, and dissipation of heat is no longer possible.

_To aid in the prevention of heat-related illness, here are some recommendations:

• Ensure that kids are well hydrated (DRINK A LOT).
• Plain water is the liquid of choice, with sports drinks – such as Gatorade® – and diluted fruit juice acceptable forms of fluid replacement.  Avoid  caffeine - it will increase the rate body fluid loss (urination) - which will increase the child's chance of becoming dehydrated.
• Encourage students to wear loose fitting summer clothing.
• In order to prevent heat fatigue, try to offer rest periods.
• If possible, provide shade during breaks, and or over dugouts

Heat Cramps

SYMPTOMS:
 

TREATMENT:

• Muscular cramps brought on by exercise and the resulting loss of sodium
• Move the person to a cooler place to rest in a comfortable position.

TREATMENT

• Lightly stretch the affected muscle and replenish fluids.
• Give person small amounts (4 oz.- 5 oz.) of water every 15 minutes.
• DO NOT GIVE ALCOHOL OR CAFFEINE; THIS CAN WORSEN THE CONDITION.

Heat Exhaustion

SYMPTOMS:



 

TREATMENT:

• Cool, moist, pale or flushed skin
• Heavy sweating, headache, nausea or vomiting
• Dizziness and exhaustion
• Body temperature near normal

TREATMENT

• Move the person out of the heat and into a cooler place.
• Remove or loosen tight clothing and apply cool wet cloths, such as towels or sheets.
• If the person is conscious, give cool water to drink. Make sure the person drinks slowly. Give a half glass of cool water every 15 minutes.
• Observe the victim carefully for changes in condition.
• DO NOT GIVE ALCOHOL OR CAFFEINE; THIS CAN WORSEN THE CONDITION.

Heat Stroke

SYMPTOMS:




 

TREATMENT:

• Hot, red skin
• Change in consciousness, irritability, confusion
• Rapid, weak pulse and rapid, shallow breathing
• Body temperature can be very high – sometimes as high as 105 degrees F.
• Skin may feel wet or dry.

TREATMENT

• Call 911 or your local emergency number.
• Quickly cool the body: Immerse victim in a cool bath or wrap wet sheets around the body and fan the victim.
• If victim refuses water, is vomiting or shows a decreased level of consciousness, do not give anything to eat or drink.