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Heat & Drought Life-saving
Heat Exhaustion vs. Heat Stroke
Heat stroke is a true emergency. Knowing the difference — and acting fast — saves lives.
What to do
- 1Heat exhaustion: heavy sweating, weakness, cool/clammy skin, nausea. Move to shade, cool down, sip water/electrolytes, rest.
- 2Heat STROKE: hot/red skin, confusion, no sweating, fainting, temp 104°F+. This is life-threatening.
- 3For heat stroke: call emergency services NOW and cool aggressively — ice packs to neck/armpits/groin, cool water, fan.
- 4Do not give fluids to someone who is confused or unconscious.
- 5Keep cooling until help arrives or symptoms clearly improve.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Mistaking heat stroke for 'just tired'
- Waiting to call for help
- Giving fluids to an unconscious person
Good to know
- Confusion + hot dry skin = heat stroke = 911. Cool first, transport second.
Continue here — more Heat & Drought