Doing too much on a hot day, spending too much time in the sun or staying too long in an overheated place can cause heat-related illnesses.
During hot days drink plenty of water regularly regardless of your activity level (consult your physician if you are on a fluid-restrictive diet before doing so). When outdoors apply sunscreen lotion and dress in loose fitting clothes that cover as much skin as possible. Know the symptoms of heat disorders and overexposure to the sun, and be ready to give first aid. Call Public Safety (909-748-8888) if medical assistance is needed.
HEAT DISORDERS - SYMPTOMS and FIRST AID
HEAT RASH:
Symptoms: Looks like a red cluster of pimples or small blisters. More likely to occur on the neck and upper chest, in the groin, under the breasts, and in elbow creases.
First Aid: Move to a cooler, less humid environment. Keep affected area dry. Avoid using ointments or creams. Dusting powder may be used to increase comfort. Heat rash usually does not require medical assistance.
SUNBURN:
Symptoms: Redness and pain. In severe cases swelling of skin, blisters, fever, headache.
First Aid: Ointments for mild cases if blisters appear and do not break. If breaking occurs, apply dry sterile dressing. Serious, extensive cases should be seen by a physician.
HEAT CRAMPS:
Symptoms: Painful spasms usually in muscles of legs and abdomen possible. Heavy sweating.
First Aid: Firm pressure on cramping muscles, or gentle massage to relieve spasm. Give sips of water. If nausea occurs, discontinue use.
HEAT EXHAUSTION:
Symptoms: Heavy sweating, weakness, skin cold, pale and clammy. Pulse thready. Normal temperature possible. Fainting and vomiting.
First Aid: Get victim out of sun. Lay down and loosen clothing. Apply cool, wet cloths. Fan or move victim to air conditioned room. Give sips of water. If nausea occurs, discontinue use. If vomiting continues, seek immediate medical attention.
HEAT STROKE (or sunstroke):
Symptoms: High body temperature (106°F or higher). Hot dry skin. Rapid and strong pulse. Possible unconsciousness.
First Aid: Heat stroke is a severe medical emergency. Call 911 or get the victim to a hospital immediately. Delay can be fatal. Move the victim to a cooler environment. Reduce body temperature with cold bath or sponging. Use extreme caution. Remove clothing, use fans and air conditioners. If temperature rises again, repeat process. Do not give fluids.