As heat grips parts of the US, the RRCA reminds runners and walkers that knowing the warning signs and symptoms of both heat exhaustion and heat stroke can save a life. During hot and humid conditions, heat illness and heat stroke are likely to become apparent shortly after a run is completed and when the body temperature is elevated following exercise.
Heat Exhaustion signs include:
- Dizziness
- Thirst
- Heavy sweating
- Weakness
- Nausea
If you experience or witness someone with heat exhaustion, help them cool down in the shade, sip water, and loosen or remove clothing layers as needed.
Heat Stroke is LIFE THREATENING and can develop quickly after heat exhaustion. Signs include:
- Confusion
- In ability to regulate body
- Body temperature reaches dangerous/deadly levels
- Loss of Consciousness
If you experience or witness someone with heat stroke, call 911 immediately. Make all efforts to cool a person with water, if possible use air conditioning in a car – keep windows open for airflow as a car cools down. Access a nearby business that has AC. Do not leave someone experiencing heat stroke alone until emergency services arrive.
Learn more at https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/extremeheat/warning.html