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Heat stroke

Hot skin, confusion, slurred speech, or fainting. It's an emergency.

Call 911
Do this nowTap each step when done
  1. 1Call 911 right away.
  2. 2Move them to a cool place or one with air conditioning.
  3. 3Loosen or remove extra clothing.
  4. 4Cool them now: cold water, a cold bath, or wet cloths.
  5. 5Put wrapped ice on the neck, armpits, and groin.
  6. 6Wet them and fan them so the water evaporates.
1. 911 and move them to a cool place   2. Cool them now with cold water   3. Wrapped ice: neck, armpits, and groin   4. Wet them and fan them so it evaporates
Don't
  • Don't give fluids if it's heat stroke.
  • Don't rely only on a fan blowing very hot air.
  • Never leave anyone, or a pet, in the car.
Have ready
  • Thermometer and towels to wet.
  • Battery-powered fan and electrolytes.
  • Ice or instant cold packs.
  • Your nearest cooling center (311 in many cities).
Key factExhaustion (cold, sweaty skin, alert): cool place and sips of water. In doubt? Treat it as heat stroke. Cooling centers: call your city's services line (311 in many cities) or check your city or county website.

More detail

Ch. 7 · First aidOpen chapterCh. 10 · Natural disastersOpen chapter
Next urgent cardUnconscious person / not breathing: CPR and AED

Reviewed: Nov 2026 · Sources: Chapter 7 · First Aid