Prevention:
Heatstroke is predictable and preventable. Follow these steps to prevent heatstroke during hot weather:
- Wear loose fitting, lightweight clothing: wearing excess clothing or clothing that fits tightly won’t allow body to cool properly
- Protect against sunburn: sunburn affects the body’s ability to cool itself, so protect the outdoor with a wide brimmed hat and sunglasses and use a broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15.
- Drink plenty of fluids: staying hydrated will help the body sweat and maintain a normal body temperature.
- Take extra precautions with certain medications: be on the lookout for heat related problems if you take medications that can affect the body’s ability to stay hydrated and dissipate heat.
- Never leave anyone in parked car; this is most common cause of heat related deaths in children. When parked in sun the temperature in car will rise 20 degrees F in just 10-15 minutes.