Emergency? Call 112 now. Dispatchers will guide you through these steps on the phone.
Heat illness rises every summer as heatwaves become more frequent. Older adults, infants, outdoor workers, athletes and people on certain medications are most at risk.
Heavy sweating, headache, dizziness, nausea, cramps, fast pulse, pale and clammy skin. Usually improves within 30 minutes of cooling.
Very high body temperature, confusion, slurred speech, hot skin (which may be dry or sweaty), seizures or collapse.
Heat exhaustion: what to do
- Move to a cool, shaded place and lie them down with legs slightly raised.
- Give water or an oral rehydration / sports drink if they are fully alert.
- Cool the skin with water spray and fanning; apply cool packs to neck and armpits.
- If no improvement in 30 minutes, treat as heatstroke.
Heatstroke: what to do
- Call your emergency number.
- Cool them as fast as possible — cold-water immersion up to the neck is the most effective method where available; otherwise soak with water and fan continuously, and place ice packs on neck, armpits and groin.
- Do not give fluids to a confused or unresponsive person. Place them in the recovery position if unresponsive but breathing.
Last reviewed October 22, 2026 against current public guidance from national resuscitation councils and Red Cross / Red Crescent first-aid manuals. General education only — not a substitute for certified training or professional medical advice. Medical disclaimer · Suggest a correction