First Aid Tips by Ross SMITH (Paramedic)
Heat Exhaustion
As I write this first aid tip the point seems a bit mute looking out the window at Adelaide’s unseasonable cooler temperature today. However physical activity in hot weather can result in heat exhaustion. We all know to drink plenty and replace lost fluids while participant in sports, but being aware of the basic signs & symptoms of heat exhaustion is vital.
What to look for:
- Feeling thirsty – early stages telling you to hydrate
- Feeling light headed/faint – body cells are dehydrating
- Exhaustion, nausea/vomiting – extremely dehydrated
What to do:
- Stop sporting activity and rest
- Drink plenty or water – sports drinks are ok but water first
- Cool down in shade, fan or ice packs
- Still unwell seek medical advice.
Remember – hydrate before a tennis game, during and after the game and wear protective clothing and hats.
About Ross Smith
Ross Smith was a practicing paramedic for 20 years; his experience ranges from on-road ambulances, helicopter rescue to medic with the Royal Flying Doctor Service.
Since leaving the ambulance service Ross has run a successful First Aid Training business, to recently re-qualified as an Advance Life Support Paramedic and consulted across the health care industry.
Ross’s opinion is often sort on a variety of first aid, health and safety subjects. He has appeared on channel 7 Sunrise and channel tens Studio 10 programs as a Key Opinion Leader within the first aid industry. Ross has consulted or worked with professional organisations such as the American Heart Association, Irish Water Safety and the Australian Resuscitation Council.
He is involved in innovative product development for the health and first response sector, launching new products with personalities such as Sarah Murdoch, Leisel Jones and Laurie Lawrence.
Ross is currently working with Australian First Aid as their Paramedic Health & Safety Advisor.
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