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What to Say in an Emergency

When Calling 911 for Heat Stroke

Say exactly:

"My child has heat stroke. They are [age], their body temperature is [temperature], and they are [conscious/unconscious/confused]. I am cooling them now."

When Calling for Heat Exhaustion

Say exactly:

"My child has been in the heat and is showing signs of heat exhaustion. They are [age] and experiencing [specific symptoms]. Should I bring them in?"

Step-by-Step Instructions

  • 1
    Move to Cool Environment
    • Get child out of heat immediately (indoors, shade, air conditioning)
    • Remove excess clothing and shoes
    • Lay child down and elevate legs slightly
    • If unconscious, place in recovery position
  • 2
    Begin Rapid Cooling
    • Apply cool, wet cloths to neck, armpits, and groin
    • Fan the child while applying wet cloths
    • Use ice packs wrapped in towels on pulse points
    • Immerse in cool (not cold) bath if conscious and alert
  • 3
    Monitor Vital Signs
    • Check body temperature every 5 minutes
    • Monitor breathing and consciousness level
    • Stop cooling when temperature reaches 101°F/38.3°C
    • Watch for signs of shock or seizures
  • 4
    Provide Fluids (if conscious)
    • Give cool water or sports drinks in small sips
    • Do NOT give fluids if child is vomiting or unconscious
    • Avoid alcohol, caffeine, or very cold drinks
    • Continue until emergency services arrive

Watch for Signs

Monitor your child for these symptoms:

🚩 Heat Stroke (EMERGENCY - Call 911)

  • Body temperature 104°F (40°C) or higher
  • Hot, dry skin (stopped sweating)
  • Altered mental state (confusion, agitation, unconsciousness)
  • Rapid, strong pulse
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Seizures
  • Headache and dizziness

⚠️ Heat Exhaustion (Needs immediate cooling)

  • Heavy sweating or stopped sweating
  • Body temperature 100-104°F (37.8-40°C)
  • Cool, moist, pale skin
  • Fast, weak pulse
  • Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
  • Headache and muscle cramps
  • Weakness and fatigue
  • Dizziness and fainting

💚 Heat Cramps (Mild heat illness)

  • Muscle cramps in legs, arms, or abdomen
  • Heavy sweating during exercise
  • Normal body temperature
  • Thirst and fatigue

FAQs (Common Parent Questions)

What's the difference between heat exhaustion and heat stroke?

Heat exhaustion involves heavy sweating and temperatures up to 104°F. Heat stroke is life-threatening with temperatures over 104°F, stopped sweating, and altered mental state. Heat stroke requires immediate 911 call.

How quickly can heat stroke develop?

Heat stroke can develop rapidly, especially in hot cars or during intense activity. A child's body temperature can rise 3-5 times faster than an adult's, making them extremely vulnerable.

Is it safe to put ice directly on the skin?

No, never put ice directly on skin as it can cause frostbite. Always wrap ice packs in towels and focus on pulse points (neck, armpits, groin) for most effective cooling.

When should I stop cooling my child?

Stop active cooling when their body temperature reaches 101°F (38.3°C) to prevent overcooling. Continue monitoring as temperature can rise again.

Can heat stroke cause permanent damage?

Yes, heat stroke can cause permanent brain damage, organ failure, or death if not treated immediately. This is why rapid cooling and emergency medical care are critical.

Real Parent Tips

Real Parent Experiences

"I always keep a cooler with ice packs in the car during summer. When my son overheated at the park, having immediate cooling supplies made all the difference."

— Lisa Chen, Phoenix, AZ

"The wet towel and fan method worked incredibly well. His temperature dropped from 103 to 100 in about 10 minutes while we waited for the ambulance."

— Robert Martinez, Dallas, TX

"I learned that kids don't always complain when they're overheating. Now I watch for the early signs like excessive sweating or seeming tired in the heat."

— Amanda Foster, Miami, FL
This guide is intended for quick reference and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a medical professional if uncertain.