Heat stress occurs when we produce more body heat than normal. Heat stroke is a medical emergency where “the rise in body temperature results in disruption to a number of bodily functions”, Eggleton says. To treat someone with heat stroke, remove them from direct sunlight or heat to a cool environment, and help them rehydrate and cool down, Eggleton says. Staying hydrated can help guard against heat stress and exhaustion. “Treating heat stroke really depends on people being able to recognise it in others, as people experiencing heat stroke might become confused or may not recognise the symptoms in themselves.”To avoid heat stroke, stay out of the sun during the hotter parts of the day, particularly around midday.

Source: New Zealand Herald January 10, 2026 03:02 UTC