Babies & Young Children

Little ones heat up faster than adults, and they don’t have a well-developed sweat system to cool them down. Plus, they rely on caregivers to keep them hydrated and out of the heat. Ever left a car parked in the sun? Imagine how fast it heats up—now picture a baby stuck inside. That’s a life-threatening situation.

How to Stay Safe:

• Never leave a child alone in a car, even for a minute.
• Dress them in light, breathable clothing.
• Keep them in the shade and give them plenty of water.

People with Chronic Health Conditions

Certain medical issues make it harder for the body to handle heat. If you or someone you know has:

• Heart disease or high blood pressure – The heart works harder in the heat, increasing the risk of heatstroke.
• Diabetes – It can mess with the body’s ability to sweat and regulate temperature.
• Obesity – Extra body weight traps heat, making it harder to cool down.

How to Stay Safe:

• Avoid excessive exertion in the heat.
• Take medications as directed and check with a doctor about how they might affect heat tolerance.
• Use a heatstroke prevention wristband or other wearable tech to monitor body temperature.

Outdoor Workers & Athletes

Construction workers, landscapers, delivery drivers, and anyone else working in the sun for hours are at major risk. The same goes for athletes pushing their limits in the heat. Sweating alone isn’t enough—when you lose too much fluid without replacing it, heat exhaustion can quickly turn into full-blown heatstroke.

How to Stay Safe:

• Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! Water and electrolyte drinks are a must.
• Take breaks in the shade whenever possible.
• Wear lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing.

People Taking Certain Medications

Believe it or not, some medications make heatstroke more likely. Diuretics (for blood pressure), antidepressants, antihistamines, and certain mental health medications can interfere with sweating and hydration.

How to Stay Safe:

• Talk to your doctor about heat-related side effects.
• Be extra cautious in hot weather.
• Watch for early signs of heat exhaustion—dizziness, nausea, and excessive sweating.

People Without Easy Access to Cooling

Not everyone has air conditioning or a cool place to escape the heat. Homeless individuals, prisoners, and people living in poorly ventilated spaces are at a higher risk, especially during heatwaves.

How to Stay Safe:

• If AC isn’t an option, use fans and cold showers to cool down.
• Spend time in public cooling centers, libraries, or malls.
• Wear a heat prevention device to monitor your body’s heat levels.

Alcohol & Drug Users

Ever had a drink in the sun and felt way dizzier than usual? That’s because alcohol dehydrates you fast. Drugs like cocaine, meth, and ecstasy also raise body temperature dangerously high, increasing the risk of heatstroke.

How to Stay Safe:

• Limit alcohol in extreme heat.
• Drink plenty of water alongside any beverages.
• If you see someone showing signs of heatstroke, call for help immediately.

Summary of highest risk of heatstroke

If you or a loved one is in a high-risk group, don’t take chances with the heat. Hydrate, seek shade, and consider wearing a heatstroke prevention wristband to track your body temperature in real time. A little prevention can make all the difference.

Got questions about heatstroke prevention? Drop them in the comments! Stay cool out there!