Heat Related Tips and Information

May 2, 2008 - 2:40:24 PM

The Office of Security and Emergency Preparedness has developed some self-help measures that may help you recognize and respond promptly to warning signs of heat related illness. Your best defense against heat-related illness is prevention. Staying cool and making simple changes in your fluid intake, activities, and clothing during hot weather can help you remain safe and healthy.  A link is provided below to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention which expands on "What You Should Know" about extreme heat prevention, heat stress resources for workers, FAQs and more.....

Heat Guidelines:

  • Limit time outdoors
    • If possible, go outdoors during the coolest part of the day
    • Plan strenuous outdoor activity for early morning or late in the day
    • Stay in the shade if possible when going outdoors
  • Drink lots of liquids
    • Drink water, diluted fruit juice, or sports beverages
    • Limit the intake of caffeinated drinks
    • Don't wait until you are thirsty to drink
    • Do not drink alcohol
  • If going outside wear appropriate clothes
    • Loose fitting shirts and pants
    • Wide brimmed hats
    • Light colored clothes are preferred to dark colors
  • When outside, monitor the health of others

Signs of Heat Illness:

Heat exhaustion is the most common heat illness and often comes on suddenly. It is caused by decreased blood volumn due to dehydration. Symptoms may include:

  • Heavy sweating
  • Paleness
  • Muscle cramps
  • Tiredness
  • Weakness
  • Dizziness
  • Headache
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Fainting
  • Confusion or unclear thinking
  • Feeling chilled

First Aid for Heat Illness:

  • Call 911 or Campus: 706-542-2200  (UGA Police) for medical assistance
  • Get the victim to a shady area or air conditioned area
  • Cool the victim down. Some methods of cooling the person down can include spraying the victim with water, using a sponge to apply water to the victim, and fanning the victim
  • Have the victim drink cool water or sports drink

If left unattended, heat exhaustion can result in the more disabling and deadly heat stroke. Heat stroke occurs when the body is unable to regulate its temperature and cool down. Body temperature may rise to 106 degrees F or higher within 10-15 minutes. Warning signs vary, but may include:

  • An extremely high body temperature (above 103 degrees F, orally)
  • Red, hot and dry skin
  • No sweating
  • Rapid, strong pulse or heartbeat
  • Rapid, shallow breathing
  • Elevated or lowered breathing
  • Throbbing headache
  • Dizziness
  • Nausea
  • Confusion
  • Irritability
  • Unconsciousness

First Aid for Heat Stroke (sunstroke):

Heat stoke is a severe medical emergency. Summon emergency medical assistance or get the individual to a hospital immediately. Delay can be fatal.

  • Call 911 or Campus: 706-542-2200  (UGA Police) for medical assistance
  • Get the victim to a shady area or air conditioned area
  • Reduce the body temperature by misting/sponging the victim with water and fanning the victim. Remove clothing.
  • If temperature rises again, repeat process.
  • Do not give fluids.

Helpful Related Links: