When your body overheats, it can cause heat exhaustion. If left untreated, heat exhaustion can lead to heatstroke. This is a potentially life-threatening condition and medical emergency.
If someone is overheated, encourage them to rest in a cool location. Remove excess layers of clothing and try to cool their body down by doing the following:
- Cover them with a cool, damp sheet.
- Apply a cool, wet towel to the back of their neck.
- Sponge them with cool water.
Call 911 if they develop signs or symptoms of heatstroke, including any of the following:
- nausea or vomiting
- mental confusion
- fainting
- seizures
- a fever of 104°F (40°C) or greater