When to Perform First Aid vs Calling for Help

The decision between self-treatment and emergency services can be life-saving. Understanding the threshold is crucial.

Call 911 Immediately For:

Any Heat Stroke Signs:

- Temperature above 104°F - Any mental confusion - Loss of consciousness - Seizures - Hot, dry skin OR profuse sweating with above symptoms

High-Risk Individuals with Any Heat Illness:

- Elderly (over 65) - Children under 4 - Chronic medical conditions - Taking certain medications - Homeless individuals

Heat Exhaustion That:

- Doesn't improve within 30 minutes - Prevents drinking fluids - Includes vomiting - Worsens despite treatment - Occurs in high-risk person

Can Treat On-Site If:

Heat Exhaustion Only:

- Person is alert and coherent - Can drink fluids - Temperature below 104°F - Improves with cooling - No medical conditions

Requirements for Self-Treatment:

- Cool environment available - Fluids accessible - Someone to monitor - Ability to check temperature - Plan if symptoms worsen

> Important Disclaimer: > Heat stroke is a true medical emergency with high mortality even with treatment. When in doubt, call 911. Rapid cooling in the first 30 minutes is crucial for survival. This guide doesn't replace professional medical assessment. Some medications and conditions dramatically increase heat illness risk.

Time-Critical Decisions:

1. 0-5 minutes: Recognize, begin cooling, call 911 if needed 2. 5-30 minutes: Aggressive cooling for heat stroke 3. 30-60 minutes: Reassess heat exhaustion 4. 60+ minutes: Medical evaluation if not improving 5. 24-48 hours: Monitor for complications