Healthcare CPR/AED & First
Aid (BLS) Combo

Heat Exhaustion:

If this condition is not treated, it can lead to a heat stroke. Heat exhaustion may occur if a person is in the heat for a long period of time or is sweating a lot. It often affects athletes, firefighters, construction workers, and factory workers, and those who wear heavy clothing in hot and humid environments.

Heat Stroke:

This is the least common but the most severe heat-related emergency. It develops when the body system is overwhelmed by heat and begins to stop functioning.

Frostbite:

Frostbite occurs when a part of your body is exposed to extreme cold. It typically affects the fingers, nose, ears and toes. Severity of this injury depends on the temperature, length of exposure and wind. In the most severe of cases, frostbite can lead to a loss of the affected body part. Remember, do not rub the frostbitten area.

Hypothermia:

Hypothermia is when the entire body cools because its ability to keep warm fails. This condition is severe and can lead to death. The temperature does not have to be below freezing to develop hypothermia. If a person stops to shiver, this is a sign of further deterioration. Shivering stops when the body temperature is very low.

First Aid Actions / Treatment Steps: Heat-Related Emergencies

1. Assess the scene and check for your safety.
2. Activate EMS (Call 9-1-1) if person experiences heat stroke or heat exhaustion condition worsens.
3. Get a First Aid kit and wear personal protective equipment.
4. If person is experiencing:
   • Heat Cramp: have the person rest and drink juice or a sports drink, which contains sugar and electrolytes; lightly stretch or massage the cramped area
   • Heat Stroke: instantly cool the person and if possible, immerse in cool water up to the chin
5. If necessary in severe conditions, provide CPR. If you do not know how, give Hands-Only CPR.