Heat Stroke & Heat Exhaustion — First Aid Guide for WA Summers
Western Australia has some of the hottest summers in the country.
When temperatures sit above 35–40°C, heat-related illnesses can strike quickly and become life-threatening — especially for children, seniors, and outdoor workers.
Heat stroke and heat exhaustion are two of the most common emergencies treated during WA summers.
Here’s how to recognise the signs and apply correct First Aid.
⭐ 1. Heat Exhaustion — Early Warning Stage
Heat exhaustion happens when the body overheats but hasn’t shut down yet.
It’s a warning sign that heat stroke is coming if action isn’t taken.
Common symptoms:
Heavy sweating
Headache
Fatigue or weakness
Dizziness
Pale, clammy skin
Nausea
Muscle cramps
What to do:
Move to shade or air-conditioning
Give small sips of water
Loosen tight clothing
Use cool wet towels on the neck and armpits
Stop all physical activity
If symptoms don’t improve within 15 minutes → treat as heat stroke.
⭐ 2. Heat Stroke — Life-Threatening Emergency
Heat stroke happens when the body’s cooling system fails completely.
The core body temperature rises to dangerously high levels (above 40°C), and vital organs start to shut down.
Symptoms of heat stroke:
Hot, dry skin (no sweating)
Red or flushed skin
Confusion or strange behaviour
Collapse
Seizures
Rapid pulse
Vomiting
Unconsciousness
Heat stroke = medical emergency.
Call 000 immediately.
⭐ 3. First Aid for Heat Stroke (DRS ABCD Applies)
✔ Step 1: Call 000
Heat stroke can kill within minutes.
Don’t wait.
✔ Step 2: Move to a cooler area
Shade, indoors, car AC — anywhere cooler than outdoors.
✔ Step 3: Cool the person FAST
Use any of the following:
Cold packs
Cool wet towels
Spray with cool water
Fan the person
Remove excess clothing
Apply ice packs to armpits / neck / groin
✔ Step 4: If conscious — give small sips of water
Do NOT force water.
Do NOT give icy-cold water too quickly.
✔ Step 5: If unresponsive — be prepared to do CPR
Follow the DRSABCD steps.
⭐ 4. Who Is Most at Risk in WA?
Children under 5
Elderly people
Outdoor workers
Runners & athletes
Construction workers
People with medical conditions
People drinking alcohol in the sun
Anyone in a hot car (very dangerous)
⭐ 5. Heat Illness Prevention Tips for WA Families
✔ Stay hydrated
Drink water regularly — not just when thirsty.
✔ Limit midday outdoor activity
WA UV and heat are strongest between 11am–3pm.
✔ Never leave kids or pets in cars
Even for a minute.
✔ Wear light, breathable clothing
Helps the body cool itself.
✔ Know the weather forecast
Heatwaves often come with little warning.
✔ Recognise early symptoms
Treating heat exhaustion early prevents heat stroke.
⭐ Why First Aid Matters in Heat Emergencies
Heat stroke is one of the few conditions where fast cooling = survival.
Proper First Aid:
✔ lowers body temperature
✔ protects the brain
✔ reduces organ damage
✔ saves lives
At All Ages First Aid Training Rockingham, we teach you how to identify and manage heat-related emergencies with confidence.
⭐ Want to Be Prepared for All Summer Emergencies?
Learn practical skills in small, hands-on classes.
We teach:
HLTAID009 Provide CPR
HLTAID011 Provide First Aid
HLTAID012 Childcare First Aid