How to Prevent Sunstroke
Sunstroke, also referred to as a heatstroke, can occur when the body is unable to sufficiently cool itself. Although there are many ways to prevent this condition, it can become life-threatening, resulting in brain damage or death. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, people at a greater risk for a heat-related illness include infants, young children, people 65 or older, those who have a mental illness, and those with certain medical conditions such as high blood pressure or heart disease.
According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), symptoms of sunstroke include a body temperature of 105 degrees Fahrenheit or greater; rapid, weak pulse; red, dry skin; a decreased or absent amount of sweat; rapid, shallow breathing; and unconsciousness.
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Things You'll Need
- Water or sports beverage
- Appropriate clothes
- Wide-brimmed hat
- Sunglasses
- Umbrella
- Sunscreen
- Air conditioner or electric fan
- Drapes, shades or awnings
Instructions
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Drink plenty of water before going outside and continue drinking water or a sports beverage every 15 to 20 minutes while outside to maintain hydration. Avoid beverages that have dehydrating effects on the body such as those containing caffeine, sugar or alcohol.
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Wear appropriate clothes that are light-colored, lightweight and loose-fitting. Wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses or use an umbrella to offer additional protection against the sun.
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Wear sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or greater when out in the sun.
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Perform outdoor activities during cooler parts of the day, which are before 10 a.m. and after 6 p.m.
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Rest often indoors or in shady areas.
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Stay indoors or in an air-conditioned place like a shopping mall or public library as much as possible.
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Cool your home with an air conditioner or electric fan. If you still feel hot, take a cool shower or bath, or move to an air-conditioned place.
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Cover windows that let in either morning or afternoon sunlight with drapes, shades or awnings.
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Tips & Warnings
According to FEMA, first aid for a person suffering from sunstroke includes calling 911 or getting the person to a hospital immediately, moving the person to a cooler environment, removing clothing and performing acts to decrease body temperature such as a cool sponge bath.
If you have a health condition that requires a restriction of fluids, consult your physician for further guidance related to the amount of fluid you should drink while performing outdoor activities.
Never stay in or leave anyone in a closed, parked car for any length of time. The temperature inside a closed car can reach a life-threatening temperature in minutes.
Very cold drinks can cause stomach cramps.
