1. JSP 539
Climatic Injury
The Prevention and Management of Heat Injury

2. Outline of Presentation
What is Heat Injury?
Signs and Symptoms
Risks to the Armed Forces
Individual Risk Factors
Prevention
Summary

3. What is Heat Injury? Your body temperature should be around 37oC
If the body produces more heat than it can get rid of, the core temperature will rise
Core temperature above 39oC = Heat Casualty
Collapses on exertion
Core temperature above 40oC = Heat Stroke
Emergency action needed, death can occur

4. Signs and Symptoms Thirst Extreme tiredness Agitation
Feeling sick or vomiting
Staggering or loss of co-ordination
Muscle cramps
Disturbed vision
Confusion
Collapse or loss of consciousness

5. Risk Factors Overweight Lower physical fitness Dehydration
Recent alcohol intake
Illness
Medication
Poor nutrition
Lack of sleep

6. Exertional Heat Illness
Risk is increased for Service personnel due to:
High levels of physical activity
Training during high temperatures
Protective clothing e.g. Helmets, CBRN IPE

7. How Do We Lose Heat?

8. Treatment STOP THE ACTIVITY, is anyone else at risk?
Lie casualty down in the shade
Immediately strip to underwear
If conscious: raise feet, give water, fan and sponge or spray with cool water
If unconscious: place in ¾ prone recovery position, fan and sponge or spray with cool water
Evacuate IMMEDIATELY for medical attention

9. Prevention - Hydration
Check urine colour – Should be light in colour and plenty of it
Ensure you are hydrated prior to starting exercise / operations
Always carry a full water bottle
Avoid fizzy drinks and alcohol before and after operations/training
Drink regardless of weather conditions

10. Summary Heat injury can kill! Know the early signs and symptoms
Replacement of fluids is very important
You can help yourself by:
Keeping fit
Eating well
Getting a good nights sleep
Be more aware when:
The weather is hot
Wearing protective clothing
When physically active

11. Questions?