As the mercury climbs as we head into summer, I thought it appropriate to discuss heat-related illness for this edition of the Sheriff’s Message. In South Florida, we enjoy tropical weather year-round, but during the summer months, heat can cause serious health issues especially for the very young and the not-so-very young, too. Across the United States, many people die from heat-related illnesses, and many more are hospitalized with life-threatening conditions. Heat stroke and heat exhaustion are two heat-related illnesses that are both emergencies. The good news is that heat-related illness can be prevented. Practicing a few simple tips can help keep you cool and healthy during the hot spells. But first, let’s explore the difference between heat stroke and heat exhaustion with a little consultation from our Emergency Medical Services Division at Broward Sheriff Fire Rescue.

Heat exhaustion is a milder form of heat-related illness that can develop after several days of exposure to high temperatures and not taking in enough fluids. The warning signs of heat exhaustion include dizziness, headache, tiredness or weakness, paleness, excessive sweating, muscle cramps, nausea and vomiting. Heat stroke is a more serious condition and can be deadly. The body’s cooling mechanism shuts down and body temperature can rise rapidly - to 106°F or higher within 10 to 15 minutes. Some warning signs of heat stroke are nausea, dizziness, confusion, high temperature (over 103 degrees), throbbing headache, rapid pulse and red, hot and dry skin. If someone is exhibiting signs of heat stroke, call 9-1-1 immediately. Broward Sheriff Fire Rescue and other South Florida EMS providers are well-trained to treat heat-related calls. Remove the victim from the heat and get him to air conditioning if possible, or to a shaded area. Cool them off with a garden hose, bottles of water or a bucket. If the victim can move, place him in a bathtub or shower with cool water running. If the victim is conscious, provide him with cold non-alcoholic, non-caffeinated beverages such as water, juice or sports drinks. If the victim is unconscious, don’t give him anything by mouth.