HEAT EXHAUSTION

As a lieutenant with Lake County Fire, Brian Gamble has responded to thousands of emergency calls involving heat exhaustion. He says golfers and construction workers are often victims because they spend numerous hours outside. Of course, heat exhaustion occurs inside homes and screenedin pool areas, as well.

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“Many people who end up with heat exhaustion are people who work in an attic and have no idea how hot it really is.

And sometimes victims are lying in the sun near their pool while drinking alcohol. Alcohol and sun are not a good combination.”

According to Gamble, common heat exhaustion symptoms include excessive sweating, a red-flushed face, rapid heartbeat, and cramps.

“If you feel any of these symptoms, you should call 911,” he says. “While you are waiting for paramedics to arrive, find some shade, go inside an air-conditioned home, or jump in a pool to get your body temperature down. Also, if you know you’re going to be spending several hours outside, do not drink soda or tea. They are diuretics and make your body dehydrate faster.”