LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — Temperatures are set to rise this week, so first responders have a warning about heat exhaustion and hiking.
Fire crews have already rescued a hiker for dehydration and heat exhaustion this season.
Las Vegas Fire and Rescue Public Information Officer Tim Szymanski says that preparation and hydration is key, even on a hike that you think is easy.
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“Heat like this will bring out complications. If you have some preexisting illnesses like diabetes, high blood pressure… anything like that, this is going to bring an onset,” Szymanski said.
Szymanski suggests wearing light colored, lightweight clothing and trading alcohol or caffeine for lots of water.
“Caffeinated drinks, fruit drinks, alcohol… they all take away from the blood stream so they really don’t count,” Szymanski said.
According to the Mayo Clinic, if you have clammy skin, feel dizzy, weak or nauseous, you may be experiencing heat exhaustion. That’s when it’s time to lie down, drink some water, and take a cool shower.
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A heat stroke will cause confusion, hot, red skin, a rapid heart rate, and a body temperature above 104 degrees. That’s when it’s time to call 911.
If you’re in the wild, cell service can be weak, so if you’re new to a trail you can download an offline map of the area you plan to explore.
