With rising summer temperatures, the Indiana Department of Homeland Security urges residents to recognize the warning signs of heat-related illness before it becomes life-threatening.
Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are two serious conditions that can develop quickly in hot weather. Symptoms of heat exhaustion may include cold, pale, and clammy skin, excessive sweating, dizziness or fainting, nausea, and a rapid but weak pulse. In contrast, heat stroke, a medical emergency, is marked by a body temperature over 103°F, hot and dry skin with no sweating, confusion or disorientation, nausea or vomiting, and a rapid, strong pulse.
If someone shows signs of heat exhaustion, move them to a cool place, have them rest, drink water, and apply cold rags to the body. If symptoms persist, call 911. For heat stroke, immediate action is critical: move the person to a cooler environment, call 911 right away, place ice under their armpits, and provide water if they are conscious.
For more information and tips on staying safe this summer, visit GetPrepared.in.gov.
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