Summer Heat Safety: How to Recognize and Respond to Heat Illness

Summer in West Michigan brings so many great things, including kids' excitement for beach days, long hiking weekends, outdoor concerts, and the energy that comes with longer days. As a dad, outdoor enthusiast, and emergency physician, I know summer heat becomes much more enjoyable when we know how to stay comfortable and safe.

While heat-related illnesses affect more than 65,000 Americans annually, according to the CDC, the vast majority are preventable with the right knowledge—and that's exactly what I'll share with you.

Understanding Heat Exhaustion vs. Heat Stroke 

Your body works hard to maintain its core temperature around 98.6°F, even when outside temperatures climb into the 90s. Heat exhaustion occurs when your body loses too much water and salt through sweating—think of it as your body's way of asking for help. Heat stroke happens when your body’s temperature rises above 103°F and needs immediate medical attention. The good news is that with quick recognition and proper cooling measures, most people recover completely, without needing medical attention. 

The progression from heat exhaustion to heat stroke can happen within 30 minutes, which is why recognizing early signs empowers you to take action before things get serious. 

Heat Exhaustion Warning Signs: 

• Heavy sweating or suddenly stopping sweating 

• Fatigue, weakness, or dizziness 

• Nausea, headache, or muscle cramps 

• Cool, moist skin despite the heat 

• Rapid heartbeat 

Heat Stroke Warning Signs: 

• High body temperature (103°F or higher) 

• Hot, dry skin OR profuse sweating 

• Confusion, altered mental state, or loss of consciousness 

• Rapid pulse that may become weak 

• Throbbing headache

The key difference: People with heat exhaustion are usually still alert and aware, while heat stroke often involves confusion or disorientation. If someone seems "not themselves" mentally, treat it as heat stroke and call 911 immediately. 

Age-Specific Warning Signs 

Children and teens often push through discomfort during sports, so watch for signs like excessive fatigue, irritability, headaches, or decreased urination. Adults might want to “wait it out” rather than disrupting fun, but if you notice difficulty concentrating or unusual fatigue during normal activities, your body is asking for attention. 

Older adults have a higher risk because their bodies don’t adjust to heat as efficiently. Warning signs include confusion, dizziness, rapid breathing, or unusual weakness.

Your Action Plan: How to Respond

For Heat Exhaustion: 

1. Move to a cool environment, preferably indoors with air conditioning or to a shaded area outdoors 
2. Remove excess clothing and loosen tight clothing 
3. Apply cool water to the skin and use fans or wet towels 
4. Give small sips of cool water if conscious and able to drink 
5. Place ice packs on the neck, armpits, and groin 
6. Monitor symptoms; if they don't improve within 15-20 minutes, seek medical care

For Heat Stroke: 

1. Call 911 immediately 
2. Use aggressive cooling measures while waiting for help 
3. Do NOT give fluids if unconscious or vomiting 
4. Continue cooling efforts until emergency help arrives

What NOT to Do: Don't give alcoholic beverages or caffeinated drinks, and don't leave someone with heat illness alone.

Prevention: Your Best Defense 

You have everything you need to enjoy summer safely. These simple strategies help you stay comfortable and confident, whether you’re tackling a morning run or spending the day at the beach with family.

Before Going Out: Check the heat index, drink water before feeling thirsty (16-20 ounces 2-3 hours before activity), choose lightweight, light-colored clothing, and plan activities for cooler parts of the day. 

During Activities: Take breaks in shade every 15-20 minutes, drink 6-8 ounces of water every 15-20 minutes, and watch for early warning signs in yourself and others. 

High-Risk Scenarios include outdoor exercise when the heat index exceeds 90°F, youth sports practices, family beach days, yard work during peak hours (10 AM-4 PM), and occupational outdoor exposure. 

When to Seek Professional Care

Call 911 or go to the emergency room if body temperature exceeds 103°, you notice signs of heat stroke (confusion, altered mental state), symptoms worsen despite cooling measures, or someone can’t drink fluids due to nausea or vomiting.  

Consider medical intervention if heat exhaustion symptoms don’t improve within 30 minutes, you’re concerned about severe dehydration, or you have underlying health conditions that increase risk. 

At RightCare Clinic, our board-certified emergency physicians are experienced in treating heat-related illnesses. We have the diagnostic tools and treatments—including IV hydration therapy—to help you recover quickly and safely. 

The Bottom Line 

Summer should be about making great memories with family and friends. With the right preparation and knowledge, you can enjoy all that West Michigan summer has to offer while keeping everyone safe and comfortable. 

If you're experiencing signs of heat illness, don't wait, seek care immediately. Our team at RightCare Clinic is here to provide expert emergency care when you need it most. 

Todd Chassee, MD, FACEP, is Medical Director for RightCare Clinic and Vice President of Clinical Services at Emergency Care Specialists