As the temperature continues to rise, it’s imperative people reduce the risk of suffering from heat-related illness.

 

Lewis Smith from the Canada Safety Council explains heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke commonly occur in young children and people who work outdoors such as construction workers.

 

Here, Smith explains what someone should do if they see someone suffering from heat-related illness.

 

“Heat exhaustion if untreated can lead to heat stroke, which is where the body’s water levels are completely depleted and body heat can shoot up very quickly. This can lead to organ failure or unconsciousness and at that moment especially, emergency help is needed. If you know someone in your area suffering from heat exhaustion, great ways to treat them includes going to cool shaded areas and giving them water. Making sure they are out of direct sunlight just so the body’s temperature can start getting back down and start regulating itself.”

 

Symptoms of heat exhaustion include excessive sweating, headache, nausea, thirst, and dizziness.

 

Hear the full interview with Smith on Thompson Today at 12:40 and 5:10 this afternoon.