Protect yourself from heatstroke

9 December 2024

Sometimes summer can feel inescapable and… well, just a little too warm. Heat can be dangerous, so it’s important to know how to protect yourself and those in your care. Do you know what to look out for, and what to do if someone is affected by heatstroke?

Our healthcare partners at Metlife 360Health, who provide your Child Care Super healthcare support service, have some advice to share in the article below.

While some sun is necessary for our bodies to make the vitamin D that protects our bones, teeth and immune systems, excessive sun exposure can lead to heat-related illnesses such as heatstroke.[1]

Heatstroke is a condition caused by your body overheating – often because of prolonged exposure to or physical activity in very high temperatures – and it is the most serious form of heat injury.   

Call 000 immediately if you are experiencing heatstroke - it is considered a medical emergency. 

Heatstroke symptoms: [2]

·      Extremely high body temperature – core body temperature of 40º C (104º F) or higher 

·      Altered mental state or behaviour (for example, confusion, slurred speech, irritability, delirium) 

·      Dizziness 

·      Loss of consciousness 

·      Fast, strong pulse 

·      Headache 

·      Hot, red, dry or damp skin 

·      Nausea and vomiting 

·      Rapid breathing 

 Heatstroke prevention: [2]

·      Protect yourself against sunburn  

·      Wear loose-fitting and lightweight clothing 

·      Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids 

·      Be careful with certain medications that can affect your body’s ability to respond to heat and stay hydrated 

·      Try to avoid strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day 

·      Never stay or leave someone in a parked car during warm or hot weather 

 Heatstroke treatment: [3]

·      Immediately move the person to a cooler place (into the shade or indoors) 

·      Help lower the person’s body temperature with a cool bath or shower, or place ice packs or cold cloths/towels on their head, neck, armpits and groin 

·      Give them sips of cool fluid if they are conscious (avoid alcohol and sugary drinks) 

·      Remove the person’s excess clothing 

We hope these tips from the 360Health team help you stay safe and healthy in the sun!  

If you’re unable to get an appointment with your regular General Practitioner (GP) during the busy holiday months, Child Care Super members and their families[4] can use the 360Health Ask a Clinician  service to get answers to medical questions within 24 hours. This service is provided at no extra cost to you and gives you access to Australian-based GPs who will answer your questions in a medically informed and fact-based manner, tailored to your specific needs.  

Awarded Money’s Health and Wellness Cover of the Year 2024[5], MetLife 360Health  also offers access to other professional medical services including mental health diagnosis and advice[6], expert medical opinions, nutrition support and fitness advice. Plus, MetLife insured customers have access to recovery support[7] for help with returning to health or work in the event of an illness or injury.