First aid advice for heatwave

A young woman is treating for heat exhaustion

St John Ambulance is offering urgent advice to people up and down the country following warnings of heatwave conditions until Thursday (28 June).

As popular outdoor events such as Wimbledon are set to take place this week, the charity advises people to apply sun cream, cover up and stay hydrated to avoid potentially fatal problems such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

Alan Weir, head of clinical operations at St John Ambulance, warns the elderly and the young are particularly vulnerable and says it is vital to spot early signs of heat-related conditions.

“We love it when the sun comes out in this country but it’s important to remember that extreme heat can be dangerous,” he says, “As many will be planning to enjoy the outdoors, we want people to recognise symptoms early on and take prompt action.

“Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are the most serious problems and are often indicated by headaches and dizziness. The first priority is to get anyone showing these signs somewhere cool and rehydrated as soon as possible. We’re not overstating the danger when we say this sometimes can mean the difference between life and death.”

How to spot heat exhaustion:

There are six key things that you may lead you to suspect that someone has heat exhaustion:

• Headache
• Dizziness and confusion
• Loss of appetite and feeling sick
• Sweating with pale clammy skin
• Cramps in the arms, legs and stomach
• Fast, weakening pulse and breathing

How to treat heat exhaustion:

• Help them to lie down in a cool place and raise their legs.
• Give them lots of water to drink or isotonic sports drinks.
• Check their breathing, pulse and responsiveness.
• Suggest they get medical advice. Call 999/112 if you are concerned.