Heat signs
Severe weakness, headache, nausea, confusion or hot skin.
Emergency preparedness · 22 min
Heat, cold and wildfire
Recognise temperature stress early and adapt your location in time.
Extreme temperatures often take effect gradually and hit people with existing conditions, children, older people and animals especially hard. Wildfires may also bring smoke, road closures and short-notice evacuation. Early action is more effective than late improvisation.
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Decision compass
Decide safely
Four questions lead from observation to a clear, safer action.
What needs to be clarified now?
What must I notice first?
- Record household needs, dependencies, current official information and available safe locations.
- Agree responsibilities, communication rules and a fallback before time pressure develops.
Remember: Observe → assess → choose a safer option → act.
Adapt location, fluids, air quality and mobility in good time.
EXPLANATORY GRAPHIC · PRACTICAL GUIDE
FIGHTandSURVIVERecognise warning signs early
Temperature stress becomes dangerous before self-assessment stays reliable.
Heat action
Stop exertion, move cool, cool carefully; call emergency help for altered consciousness.
Cold signs
Persistent shivering, clumsiness, slurred speech or drowsiness.
Cold action
Leave wet/wind, insulate and warm gently; call for altered consciousness.
Wildfire
Use official warnings and leave early—do not approach to observe.
RESULT / SAFETY CHECKConfusion, collapse, seizure, breathing trouble or unconsciousness are emergency signs.
Learning goals
- Recognise warning signs of heat and cold stress
- Organise living spaces for the temperature
- Prepare for smoke and wildfire
Heat
Ventilate during cooler hours and shade sun-exposed windows early. Plan drinking breaks, light meals and reduced physical exertion. Some medicines have storage limits or may affect temperature regulation; seek professional advice. Treat headache, confusion, hot skin or circulatory problems seriously and arrange medical help.
Cold
Dry clothing, several loose layers, head covering, warm drinks and a small occupied area help retain heat. Alcohol creates a sensation of warmth but increases heat loss and impairs decisions. Shivering, clumsiness, apathy and confusion are warning signs of hypothermia.
Smoke and wildfire
Follow warnings, wind direction and road closures. Close windows and doors, adjust ventilation according to official advice and avoid physical exertion in smoke. Prepare go-bags, medication, documents and animal transport early. Do not wait for visible flames after an evacuation instruction.
Practical check
- Plan shading and a cooler room
- Check drinking and medication needs
- Keep warm dry clothing ready
- Follow air-quality and fire warnings
- Arrange transport for animals
Important
- Confusion during heat or cold is an emergency sign
- Do not judge smoke exposure by smell alone
- Do not make unauthorised journeys into closed fire areas
Decision training
A person is confused and has hot skin during extreme heat. What is correct?
- ALeave them alone to sleep
- BCall emergency services, move them out of the heat and cool them gently
- CGive only a caffeinated drink
Show answer
Correct: B. Confusion can indicate life-threatening heatstroke and requires urgent medical help.