Heat Stroke Safety: Know the Signs 

As summer approaches, so does the extremely hot temperatures it is known for. If you are working outdoors, you may think all heat-related illnesses and ailments can be remedied with some simple R&R. With Heat Stroke, things can be much more serious. Heat Stroke is a condition caused by your body overheating because of prolonged exposure or physical exertion in high temperatures. Heat Stroke requires emergency treatment and can cause damage to the brain, heart, kidneys and muscles. Untreated Heat Stroke can be fatal, so it is important to know the signs, especially when working in the heat.  

High body temperature.?A core body temperature of 104 F (40 C) or higher is the main sign of heatstroke. 

Altered mental state or behaviour.?Confusion, agitation, slurred speech, irritability, delirium, seizures and coma can all result from heatstroke. 

Alteration in sweating.?Be aware that sweating as a sign of heat stroke can vary in different circumstances. In heatstroke brought on by hot weather, your skin will feel hot and dry to the touch with a lack of sweat but in heatstroke brought on by strenuous activity in the sun, your skin may feel dry or slightly moist.Don't disregard heat stroke just because you are sweating.  

Nausea and vomiting.?If you feel sick to your stomach or are vomiting after being in the sun, this could be a sun of heat stroke.  

Flushed skin.?Your skin may turn red as your body temperature increases. 

Rapid breathing.?Your breathing may become rapid and shallow. 

Racing heart rate.?Your pulse may significantly increase because heat stress causes your heart to go into overdrive to help cool your body. 

Headache.?A throbbing headache after exposure to heat, may be a sign of heat stroke.