During flight, how would you identify and respond to a heat-related illness?

• A. Ignore symptoms and continue with mission.
• B. Move to a warmer environment to promote sweating.
• C. Recognize dizziness, nausea, and fatigue; move to a cooler environment, provide hydration if safe, and seek medical evaluation if symptoms persist.
• D. Administer a hot beverage.

Answer: (C)

Recognizing heat-related illness involves spotting symptoms like dizziness, nausea, and fatigue that come from overheating or dehydration. In flight, the cabin environment is usually cool, but dry air and possible exertion can still lead to overheating, especially if someone is active, wearing heavy clothing, or not drinking enough fluids.

The best response is to move the person to a cooler environment if possible, offer fluids that are safe to drink (water or an electrolyte solution) and encourage them to rest. If it’s safe, remove excess clothing and use cooling methods such as a cool damp cloth on the skin or a light fan. Monitor how they feel, and seek medical evaluation if symptoms persist, worsen, or if there are any signs of heat stroke (such as confusion, fainting, or a very high body temperature). On a medical call or with the crew’s guidance, escalate to professional care promptly.

Avoid warming the person or giving hot beverages, and do not ignore symptoms. Giving a hot beverage or continuing activities would raise body temperature and could worsen the condition.