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BUT, in the UNLIKELY EVENT of >> Extreme Heat |
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| Bushwalking in hot and humid weather interferes with the normal body cooling process of
evaporation from the lungs and skin, and may lead to heat exhaustion. If this state is not recognized and
treated promptly it may progress to the more serious and potentially fatal condition of heat stroke in which
the body temperature rises due to failure of the heat regulating centre in the brain |
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| Prevention |
- When walking in hot weather, drink plenty of water.
- Avoid activity in the hottest part of the day by planning to rise early, take a midday siesta or
reduce the distance to be covered during the day.
- Plan mid summer trips near watercourses and do not overextend the party.
- Wear a hat and avoid sunburn.
- Drink plenty of water before commencing the day's walking.
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| Recognition |
| Early symptoms are thirst, muscle cramps and weakness, headache, feeling hot, faint, giddy and nauseous.
The victim develops rapid pulse and breathing accompanied by excessive sweating. As the dehydration becomes
more severe, the skin becomes hot and dry, with headache, nausea, vomiting and mental disturbance common prior
to collapse and unconsciousness. |
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| Treatment |
- Assist the victim to rest in a cool and shaded area.
- Remove unnecessary clothing, sponge with cool water and fan the victim.
- In extreme cases immerse the victim in water or if this is not possible, cover with a wet sheet or tent.
- Give frequent cool drinks.
- Gently stretch any cramped muscles.
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