As temperatures rise, health officials in Sheboygan County are reminding residents to know the signs of heat stroke.
Heat stroke, the most serious heat-related illness, occurs when your body’s ability to sweat fails, causing body temperatures to rise to dangerous levels.
If a person does not receive adequate, timely treatment, heat stroke can cause permanent disabilities or death.
With that in mind, the Division of Public Health says that someone experiencing heat stroke may exhibit signs of confusion, slurred speech, and loss of consciousness with hot, dry skin with a very high body temperature.
The first recommended action to take is to call 911.
Once that has been done, it is recommended to move the individual to a cool, shaded area if outdoors and remove any outer clothing.
Next, you will want to cool them quickly with cold water, an ice bath, or cold wet cloths.
Places on the body to target to lower temps fastest include the head, neck, armpits, and groin.
Knowing the signs of and how to combat heat stroke can save lives.
