As summer temperatures rise, the risk of heat-induced illnesses increases significantly. There is nothing Aussie families love more during the summer months than a day spent at the beach. Sandy toes and sunburnt noses are all part of the experience, but it is easy to forget just how quickly that fun in the sun can turn into an emergency situation.
Extreme heat can affect anybody and can cause serious and potentially fatal health problems. Those who are most at risk include people over the age of 65, babies and young children, pregnant women and people with pre-existing chronic health conditions.
It is crucial for everyone to recognise the signs and symptoms of these conditions and be equipped to respond appropriately.
What is heat-induced illness?
A heat-induced illness can quickly become life-threatening. Signs of heat-induced illness, previously referred to as heat exhaustion and heat stroke, include a range of symptoms that can escalate rapidly.
Patients may present as hot, sweaty, and breathless, or they may be hot and dry by the time they are seen. Sweat is our body’s natural way of regulating temperature, if the patient is not producing sweat in the heat this is a sign of serious illness.
Other gradual signs can include:
– Inability to continue the activity they are taking part in—feeling hot, exhausted, and weak
– High body temperature
– Dizziness and feeling faint
– Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
– Pale skin and other signs of shock
– Rapid weak pulse
– Poor muscle control or weakness, or unsteady gait
– Decreasing levels of consciousness, confusion, or seizures
What can you do?
In the event of a suspected heat-induced illness, immediate action is essential. First aid for a heat-induced illness focuses on cooling and rehydration.
First aid for heat-induced-illness:
- Follow DRSABCD (Danger, Response, Send for help, Airway, Breathing, CPR, Defibrillation).
- Lie the patient down in a cool or shaded area.
- Remove as much clothing as the patient is comfortable with.
- Soak the patient with any available cool water.
- Fan the patient continuously.
- Give cold water to the patient to drink if they are fully conscious and able to swallow.
It is vital to monitor the patient closely. If there is no improvement within 10 minutes, do not hesitate to call for professional medical assistance. The number to call is Triple Zero (000).
The importance of First Aid
St John Queensland offers a comprehensive range of accredited and non-accredited First Aid courses. With face-to-face, online and hybrid delivery options available there is something suit everyone. From businesses wanting to ensure the safety of the staff to schools and early childhood looking to meet their required obligations and parents ensuring the safety of their family, our courses cater to all.
As we enjoy the summer months, staying informed about the risks associated with heat-induced illnesses can save lives. Awareness and prompt action are key to ensuring safety during extreme heat conditions.
Whether you’re a first-timer or just overdue to renew your training there’s no better time to prioritise safety. Book now and make sure you have the skills and knowledge to respond to any emergency situation with confidence.
1300 ST JOHN (785 646)
