How to tell if someone needs help in extreme heat—and what to do

This story was first published in The Copper Courier’s daily newsletter. Sign up here.

It’s another hot summer in Arizona. More than 400 people are already suspected to have died from heat-related causes in Maricopa County alone.

This was on my mind as I entered Welcome Diner a few nights ago and saw a stack of summer safety pamphlets from the city of Phoenix.

The pamphlets included information on heat exhaustion and heat stroke that I thought was really important, so I wanted to share it with you, just in case you need a refresher.

Heat exhuastion

Symptoms

• faint/dizzy feeling
• rapid/weak pulse
• excessive sweating
• cool/pale/clammy complexion

Action

• Move the person to a cooler area.
• Loosen clothing.
• Have the person sip cool water.
• Seek medical help if symptoms don’t improve.

Heat stroke

Symptoms

• rapid/strong pulse
• no sweating
• body temperature above 103 degrees
• red/hot/dry complexion
• possible loss of consciousness

Action

• Call 911.
• Move the person into a cool, shaded area.
• Loosen clothing and remove extra layers.
• Cool the person with water or ice.

Whether it’s a friend at a pool party, an elderly neighbor who lost AC, or a stranger on the street, you never know who may need help—so it’s a good idea to keep this info on hand.

MORE: Floating the Salt River for the first time? Here are some tips