Diagnosing Heat Stroke

When hiking in warmer climates, heat stroke is a real danger. This can occur when body temperatue rises to dangerous levels and is unable to be controlled automatically. Dry, hot skin combined with severe headaches, dizziness, fatigue and disorientation are signs of heat stroke. These can lead to loss of consciousness or even seizures. In order to bring temperature down, take of all the victim's clothes and if possible place the victim in cool water. If not enough water is available, try using cool air by fanning the victim. It is essential to bring the victim's temperature down or death can result.