With the arrival of summer and rising temperatures, the risk of heat-related illnesses such as sunstroke and heatstroke increases. Therefore, the Canary Islands Emergency Service (SUC), part of the Health Department of the Government of the Canary Islands, emphasizes the importance of acting quickly upon the first symptoms to prevent life-threatening emergencies.
Upon the appearance of the first signs, the SUC recommends moving the affected person to the shade, to a cool and well-ventilated place. It is advisable to apply damp cloths to the forehead and body creases, such as wrists or groin. If the person is conscious, they should be given water in small sips. Additionally, the affected person should be placed in an anti-shock position: lying on their back with legs slightly elevated and head tilted.
In cases where consciousness is altered, neither food nor water should be administered. If symptoms are more severe, such as dry and hot skin or the onset of convulsions, it is crucial to urgently contact the Canary Islands Emergency Service. Instructions from the health coordinators should be followed until a healthcare resource arrives, as it could be an emergency leading to widespread failure of the body's temperature regulation mechanisms, potentially resulting in death.
