Heat exhaustion and heatstroke: what to look for

Symptoms can include tiredness, dizziness, headache, nausea or vomiting, heavy sweating, pale or clammy skin, muscle cramps, a high temperature, intense thirst and irritability.

The NHS recommends four immediate steps:

• Move them to a cool place.
• Remove unnecessary clothing.
• Give water, an isotonic sports drink or oral rehydration drink if they can drink safely.
• Cool the skin with cool water and a fan; wrapped cold packs can be placed at the neck or under the armpits.

Warning signs include a very high temperature, hot skin without sweating, fast breathing, a fast heartbeat, confusion, poor coordination, restlessness, seizures or loss of consciousness.

Heatstroke needs immediate medical help. Call 999 and continue cooling the person while waiting for assistance. Do not drive yourself to A&E.

Someone with heat exhaustion should begin to cool down and feel better within about 30 minutes. Call NHS 111 if symptoms are difficult to treat or you need advice. Call 999 if the person remains unwell after 30 minutes or shows signs of heatstroke.