On the Hottest Days of Summer, Remember These 5 Tips for Heatstroke Prevention
Updated June 2026
Summer is synonymous with fun in the sun. From swimming, hiking and biking to tennis and golf, it's a season to enjoy the outdoors. But as temperatures and humidity rise, so does the risk of heat-related illness.
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 1,700 people die from extreme heat each year in the United States. Infants and adults age 65 and older, especially those with chronic medical conditions, are at greatest risk. However, heat illness can affect anyone, including young athletes and people in good physical condition.
Fortunately, most heat-related illnesses can be prevented by taking proper precautions and recognizing the early warning signs.
Learn more about heatstroke, the most severe form of heat illness, and steps you can take to stay safe while enjoying the outdoors this summer.
What Is Heatstroke?
Heatstroke is a medical emergency. It occurs when the body's core temperature rises to 104 degrees Fahrenheit or higher and is accompanied by changes in mental status. It is often caused by strenuous physical activity or prolonged exposure to high temperatures.
Recognize Symptoms of Heat Illness
Early symptoms may include swelling of the hands or feet, muscle cramps and heat rash. More severe symptoms (heat exhaustion) can include dizziness or feeling faint, fatigue, weakness, increased thirst, nausea, vomiting, headaches, and cool, clammy skin despite sweating.
Without treatment, heat exhaustion can progress to heatstroke. Symptoms may include confusion, slurred speech, disorientation, hot skin, profuse sweating, a rapid heart rate, rapid shallow breathing and loss of consciousness.
Left untreated, heat illness can damage the liver, kidneys and muscles. The longer treatment is delayed, the greater the risk of serious complications or death.
What to Do in a Heatstroke Emergency
If you think you or a loved one is experiencing heatstroke, call 9-1-1 immediately. Then take the following steps while waiting for emergency responders:
- Move the person to a cool, shaded area or, preferably, an air-conditioned building. Rapid cooling is critical.
- If available, place the person in a tub of cold or ice water.
- Apply cold compresses or ice packs to the neck, back, armpits and groin. Fanning while misting the skin with water can also help lower body temperature.
- Remove excess clothing to help the body cool more quickly.
- If the person is conscious and able to swallow, encourage cool fluids. Do not give anything by mouth to someone who is unconscious or confused because of the risk of choking.
Tips for Preventing Heatstroke
- Stay hydrated and limit prolonged time in the heat.
- Wear lightweight, loose-fitting and light-colored clothing. Tight-fitting clothing and multiple layers can make it harder for your body to cool itself.
- Protect against sunburn by using sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher and wearing a wide-brimmed hat. Sunburn can impair the body's ability to cool itself and increase the risk of heat illness.
- Schedule outdoor activities, especially exercise, during the coolest parts of the day.
- Take frequent breaks in a cool or shaded area to rest and rehydrate.
- Avoid beverages containing caffeine or alcohol, which can contribute to dehydration. Instead, drink plenty of water. During prolonged activity or extreme heat, sports drinks with electrolytes may help replace fluids and minerals lost through sweat.
Recognizing the early warning signs of heat illness and acting quickly can help prevent a medical emergency – and may even save a life.
About the author
Paul Lenz, MD
Family Medicine
Dr. Lenz has been in practice for 16 years and joined the faculty at Summa Barberton Hospital's family medicine residency program after nearly 15 years in private practice. In addition to teaching residents and medical students, he enjoys both hospital and office-based medical practice along with nursing home care.
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