It’s hot. It’s humid. You and your co-workers are working hard. One of you could be suffering from heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Be aware of the symptoms of heat illness and the actions you should take.
The symptoms of heat exhaustion include headaches, dizziness, lightheadedness, weakness, mood changes, irritability, confusion, nausea, fainting, decreased or dark-colored urine and pale, clammy skin. Take steps to cool yourself or the victim off by moving to a cool, shaded area, drinking cool water and loosening or removing heavy clothing.
The symptoms of heat stroke include those listed above plus dry, pale skin with no sweating, hot skin that looks sunburned, seizures and the inability to revive from an unconscious state. If you think it’s a heat stroke, call 911 immediately, and cool yourself or the victim off.
The best way to prevent heat illness is to drink plenty of fluids.
