Summer in Utah means longer days, outdoor adventures, festivals, concerts, sporting events, and community celebrations. While enjoying the sunshine is part of the season, rising temperatures can also increase the risk of heat-related illnesses. Every year, emergency responders treat individuals suffering from heat exhaustion and heat stroke—two conditions that are often confused but differ significantly in severity.
Knowing the warning signs can help you act quickly and potentially save a life.
What Is Heat Exhaustion?
Heat exhaustion occurs when your body loses excessive water and electrolytes through sweating. It often develops after prolonged exposure to high temperatures, especially during physical activity.
Common Symptoms of Heat Exhaustion
- Heavy sweating
- Cool, pale, or clammy skin
- Muscle cramps
- Weakness or fatigue
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Headache
- Nausea or vomiting
- Fast, weak pulse
- Fainting
Although heat exhaustion is serious, it can often be treated if recognized early.
What To Do
If someone is experiencing heat exhaustion:
- Move them to a cool, shaded, or air-conditioned location.
- Loosen or remove excess clothing.
- Encourage them to sip cool water or an electrolyte-containing beverage if they are alert and not vomiting.
- Apply cool, wet towels or ice packs to the neck, armpits, and groin.
- Allow them to rest until symptoms improve.
If symptoms worsen, last longer than an hour, or the person becomes confused or loses consciousness, seek emergency medical care immediately.
What Is Heat Stroke?
Heat stroke is a life-threatening medical emergency. It occurs when the body’s temperature rises rapidly and can no longer regulate itself. Without immediate treatment, heat stroke can lead to organ damage, permanent disability, or death.
Warning Signs of Heat Stroke
- Body temperature of 104°F (40°C) or higher
- Hot, red skin that may be dry or damp
- Confusion or altered mental status
- Slurred speech
- Seizures
- Loss of consciousness
- Rapid, strong pulse
- Difficulty walking or maintaining balance
Unlike heat exhaustion, heat stroke requires immediate emergency intervention.
What To Do
If you suspect someone is experiencing heat stroke:
- Call 911 immediately.
- Move the person to a cooler location.
- Begin cooling them as quickly as possible using cool water, ice packs, or cold, wet towels.
- If available, place ice packs on the neck, armpits, and groin.
- Do not force the person to drink if they are confused, unconscious, or unable to swallow safely.
- Stay with them until emergency responders arrive.
Every minute matters. Rapid cooling can significantly improve outcomes.
Who Is Most at Risk?
Anyone can develop a heat-related illness, but certain individuals are at higher risk, including:
- Young children
- Older adults
- Athletes
- Outdoor workers
- Individuals with chronic medical conditions
- People taking medications that affect hydration or temperature regulation
- Anyone attending outdoor events during periods of extreme heat
Tips to Prevent Heat-Related Illness
The best treatment is prevention. Before heading outdoors:
- Drink water regularly—even before you feel thirsty.
- Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing.
- Apply sunscreen and reapply as directed.
- Take breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas.
- Avoid strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day.
- Limit alcohol consumption, which can contribute to dehydration.
- Check on family members, neighbors, and friends during extreme heat.
How Event Medical Staffing Helps Keep Events Safe
Summer events bring thousands of people together, and with large crowds and high temperatures, medical emergencies can happen quickly. Our EMTs are trained to recognize the early signs of heat-related illness and provide prompt medical care before a condition becomes more serious.
Whether we’re staffing a community festival, concert, sporting event, rodeo, or corporate gathering, our team is equipped to assess, treat, and respond to heat-related emergencies while coordinating with local EMS when advanced care is needed.
Stay Safe This Summer
Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are both preventable, but recognizing the warning signs is essential. If you or someone around you begins showing symptoms, don’t ignore them. Early intervention can prevent a medical emergency and help ensure everyone enjoys a safe summer.
If you’re planning an outdoor event this summer, Event Medical Staffing is here to help keep your guests safe so you can focus on creating an unforgettable experience.