MEDIA RELEASE

HEAT EXHAUSTION AND HEAT STROKE

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE?

Written By: Stacy L. Bodenstedt

Community Relations Specialist

With the summer months and extreme heat, the Sun City Fire Department would like to share with you some of the types of heat related illnesses that are common within our community. It is crucial that our citizens are aware of ways to prevent these types of illnesses by keeping well hydrated and cool during such time.

Heat related illness is separated into two categories:

• Exhaustion

• Stroke

Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke - What is the Difference?

• Heat Exhaustion occurs when the body's temperature is excessively high but usually less than 104 degrees Fahrenheit.

• Heat Stroke is more serious because the body's temperature is greater than 104 degrees Fahrenheit.

Heat Exhaustion

• This is a condition in which a person may sweat profusely and pale in color.

• The treatment best for one who may have this symptom is to move into a cool environment, apply cool compresses and give patient sips of water- IF NAUSEA occurs, discontinue. IF VOMITING OCCURS, SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION!

Heat Stroke

• When a persons body temperature is extremely high (106+)

• Rapid pulse rate, Possible unconsciousness

• No sweating

• TREATMENT: CALL 911!

• Move victim to cooler environment

• Try cooling the body with cool bath or sponging to reduce temperature.

• DO NOT GIVE FLUIDS!

The Sun City Fire Department will be sharing various heat related tips in future news releases to keep your summer cool. If you would like additional summer safety information, please contact the Sun City Fire Department’s Community Relations Division during normal business hours (Monday-Friday 8:00am-4:00pm) by calling (623) 974-2321 ext 19 or via email Bodenstedt@suncityfire.com