Heatwave First Aid – Treating Heatstroke, Dehydration, and Sunburn This Summer

When the UK summer finally turns up the heat, it can bring joy — and danger. Heatwaves may feel like a holiday dream, but they can pose serious health risks, especially for the elderly, children, outdoor workers, and vulnerable individuals. At Essex First Aid & Wellbeing, we believe preparation is the best prevention.

In this blog, we’ll cover how to recognise, prevent, and treat common heat-related conditions such as heatstroke, dehydration, and sunburn, with actionable First Aid guidance that could protect your loved ones this summer.

Why Heat-Related Illnesses Matter

In the UK, heatwaves are becoming more common — and with climate change, they’re getting more severe. According to the UK Health Security Agency, thousands of heat-related deaths occur every year, many of which are preventable.

Heat-related illnesses can affect anyone, but especially:

• Older adults and young children

• People with pre-existing medical conditions

• Outdoor workers (construction, delivery, agriculture)

• Athletes and those exercising in hot conditions

1. Heatstroke: A Medical Emergency

Heatstroke is the most severe heat-related illness and can be life-threatening. It happens when the body’s temperature rises above 40°C (104°F) and can’t cool down.

Signs of Heatstroke:

• Hot, dry skin (or profuse sweating in exertional heatstroke)

• Confusion, dizziness, disorientation

• Rapid heartbeat

• Headache

• Nausea and vomiting

• Seizures or loss of consciousness

First Aid for Heatstroke:

1. Call 999 immediately — heatstroke is a medical emergency.

2. Move the person to a cool, shaded place.

3. Remove excess clothing.

4. Cool the body rapidly:

   • Use fans or air conditioning if available.

   • Sponge or spray the person with cool water.

   • Apply ice packs to the armpits, neck, and groin.

5. Do not give fluids if the person is unconscious or semi-conscious.

   
   

2. Dehydration: The Silent Threat

Even mild dehydration can impair performance and concentration. In hot weather, we lose fluids rapidly through sweat, and if we don’t replace them, dehydration sets in quickly.

Symptoms of Dehydration:

• Thirst and dry mouth

• Fatigue or weakness

• Dizziness or light-headedness

• Dark-coloured urine

• Reduced urine output

First Aid for Dehydration:

1. Move the person to a cool area.

2. Encourage them to drink small sips of water, regularly.

3. Offer oral rehydration solutions (ORS) or isotonic drinks if available.

4. Monitor for signs of worsening symptoms (e.g., confusion, fainting).

   
   

Prevention Tips:

• Drink water regularly, even if you don’t feel thirsty.

• Avoid excessive alcohol or caffeine.

• Wear breathable, loose-fitting clothing.

• Avoid physical activity during the hottest part of the day.

3. Sunburn: More Than Just Red Skin

Sunburn is not only painful, it increases your risk of skin cancer and affects the body’s ability to regulate temperature.

Signs of Sunburn:

• Red, hot, and painful skin

• Swelling and blistering

• Peeling after a few days

• Fever and chills (in severe cases)

First Aid for Sunburn:

1. Cool the skin with a damp cloth or a cool bath.

2. Apply aloe vera gel or a non-perfumed moisturiser.

3. Stay hydrated — sunburn draws fluid to the skin’s surface.

4. Protect the area from further sun exposure.

5. Seek medical advice if the burn is widespread or blistered.

When to Call for Emergency Help

Always call 999 or seek urgent care if someone shows signs of:

• Heatstroke symptoms

• Severe dehydration (e.g. fainting, rapid heartbeat, very dry skin)

• Sunburn with blisters over large areas

• Vomiting, confusion, or seizures

Summer First Aid Kit Essentials

Keep your summer First Aid kit stocked with:

• Oral rehydration salts

• Aloe vera gel

• Cooling spray or cloths

• Sun cream (SPF 30+)

• After-sun lotion

• Thermometer

• Ice packs

• Plenty of bottled water

Final Thoughts: Stay Cool, Stay Safe

Hot weather is something many of us look forward to — but it comes with real risks. Knowing the signs of heatstroke, dehydration, and sunburn, and acting quickly, could save a life.

Don’t wait until it’s too late.

Train with the experts who’ve seen it all. At Essex First Aid & Wellbeing, our courses prepare you for real-life emergencies — from the workplace to the beach.