Heat exhaustion is a heat-related illness that can occur after exposure to high temperatures, and it often is accompanied by dehydration. If you or someone else is showing signs of heat exhaustion, its important to take immediate action to cool down and rehydrate. Here are some steps you can take:

• Move to a cool place: Get out of the heat and rest in a cool, shaded area or an air-conditioned room.
• Remove unnecessary clothing: Take off any tight or unnecessary clothing to help your body cool down.
• Drink fluids: Drink plenty of fluids, especially water or sports drinks to replace lost salt. Avoid caffeine and alcohol, which can dehydrate you.
• Cool the skin: Spray or sponge yourself or the affected person with cool water and fan them. Cold packs, wrapped in a cloth and put under the armpits or on the neck, can also help.
• Rest: Rest on your back with your legs raised higher than your heart level.

If you dont begin to feel better within one hour of using these treatment measures, seek prompt medical attention. If you or someone else has symptoms of heat exhaustion that youre struggling to treat or you need advice about, contact 111 or get help from 111 online. Call 999 immediately if the person loses consciousness or shows signs of heatstroke.

To prevent heat exhaustion, its important to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids, especially in hot weather or during exercise. Wear light-colored, loose clothing, avoid the sun between 11am and 3pm, and avoid excess alcohol and extreme exercise.