Heat Exhaustion, Heat Stroke, and Dehydration: A Guide for Professional Responders

/ Delta Emergency Support Training /

It’s May, and as the weather warms up and summer approaches, the risk of heat-related emergencies naturally increases. Longer, hotter days mean more time outdoors, higher physical activity levels, and greater exposure to the sun and heat. For professional responders—including Emergency Medical Responders (EMRs) and Advanced First Aiders (AFAs) working within EMS—being prepared to prevent and manage heat-related illnesses is essential.

Understanding how heat impacts the body and knowing how to recognize and treat conditions like heat exhaustion, heat stroke, dehydration, and sunburn can make a critical difference in patient outcomes during these warmer months. This guide follows Red Cross Emergency Care for Professional Responders standards to help you deliver confident, effective care when it matters most.

Understanding Heat-Related Emergencies

The body maintains a core temperature near 37°C (98.6°F). When exposed to high heat and humidity, or during exertion, the body’s cooling system can fail, causing heat-related illnesses:

Heat Cramps

  • Muscle spasms from electrolyte loss during heavy sweating.

Heat Exhaustion

  • Result of fluid and salt depletion; symptoms include weakness, heavy sweating, dizziness, nausea, pale skin, rapid pulse.

Heat Stroke (Medical Emergency)

  • Body temperature above 40°C (104°F), with failure to regulate heat. Symptoms include confusion, seizures, hot dry or moist skin, and unconsciousness. Immediate EMS intervention is critical.

Dehydration

  • Inadequate fluid replacement causing thirst, dry mouth, fatigue, and dizziness.

Sunburn

  • UV radiation damage to skin ranging from redness to blistering.

Risk Factors for Heat Emergencies

  • Hot and humid environments

  • Intense physical activity

  • Inadequate acclimatization

  • Heavy or restrictive clothing

  • Certain medications and health conditions

  • Extremes of age (young children, elderly)

  • Alcohol use

Prevention Strategies (Red Cross Recommendations)

Hydration

  • Encourage frequent water intake; avoid diuretics like caffeine and alcohol.

Appropriate Clothing and Shade

  • Wear light, breathable fabrics and protective hats.

  • Seek shade during peak sun hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).

Activity Adjustments

  • Schedule exertion for cooler times; take regular rest breaks.

Sunscreen

  • Use broad-spectrum SPF 30+ and reapply every two hours.

Monitor Vulnerable Individuals

  • Check on children, elderly, and those with medical conditions regularly.

EMS First Aid: Managing Heat Emergencies

Heat Cramps

  • Move the patient to a cool environment.

  • Provide fluids with electrolytes if tolerated.

  • Gently stretch cramped muscles.

Heat Exhaustion

  • Move patient to shade or cool area.

  • Loosen clothing and apply cool compresses.

  • Administer oral fluids cautiously.

  • Monitor airway, breathing, and circulation (ABCs).

  • Prepare for transport if no improvement.

Heat Stroke (Emergency Care)

  • Call advanced medical services immediately.

  • Move patient to cool environment, remove excess clothing.

  • Apply rapid cooling: wet cloths, fans, cool water immersion if safe.

  • Monitor vital signs closely; be ready to provide advanced life support.

  • Do not give fluids if patient is unconscious or vomiting.

Dehydration

  • Provide oral rehydration solutions if alert.

  • Transport if severe symptoms or unable to tolerate fluids.

Sunburn

  • Remove from sun exposure.

  • Apply cool compresses and moisturizing lotions.

  • Monitor for severe reactions requiring medical care.

When to Escalate Care

  • Altered mental status or seizures

  • Unresponsiveness or unconsciousness

  • Persistent vomiting or inability to take fluids

  • Signs of shock

  • Extensive sunburn or blistering

Conclusion

As EMS providers—including EMRs and AFAs—adhering to Red Cross Emergency Care for Professional Responders standards is essential for effective summer care. Preventing heat emergencies through education and early intervention can save lives.

Stay vigilant for signs of heat-related illness, prioritize rapid cooling and hydration, and always escalate care when indicated. Your knowledge and readiness make all the difference.

Want to enhance your EMS skills with Red Cross–approved training? Our instructors are experienced paramedics and firefighters who provide hands-on, practical Advanced First Aid and EMR courses designed to prepare you for real-world emergencies.