First aid · heat illness

Hyperthermia

Recognising and treating heat illness in the hills — from heat exhaustion to the danger signs of heatstroke, which is a medical emergency.

Download size

Pick the paper size to print at.

Prints as an A6 landscape card. In the print dialog pick A6 and “fit to page”, then cut along the black border.

✉️ Recommend to a friend
A memory aid, not medical training. In an emergency always dial 999 / 112 (or call/text 999 and ask for Mountain Rescue) as soon as it's safe to do so.
HyperthermiaHeat exhaustion & heatstrokeHeat exhaustion — signsHeadache, dizziness, nausea and confusion.Heavy sweating with pale, clammy skin.Cramps, intense thirst, fast pulse and breathing.Tiredness and weakness; temperature up to 40°C.TreatmentMove to shade or a cool place; loosen clothing.Lie them down and raise their legs.Sip plenty of water or a rehydration / sports drink.Cool the skin — fan or sponge; cold packs to neck and armpits.Should improve within 30 minutes.Heatstroke — call 999Still unwell after 30 minutes, or getting worse.Hot skin, often no longer sweating; temperature 40°C+.Confusion, seizures or loss of consciousness.Cool aggressively and evacuate — a medical emergency.Mountain CardsFirst-aid reference

Use of this tool is offered on the condition of a donation to Severn Area Rescue Association.