Beat the Heat | Know the signs & be ready to act

Written on 08/12/2025
Ingalls Communications


The Big Picture: With temperatures continuing to rise, the risk of heat stress grows.

  • Knowing what to look for — and how to respond — can save lives

Why It’s Important: Heat stress can quickly become a medical emergency.

  • Immediate action and proper hydration are critical to preventing serious illness or injury

Symptoms to Watch For:

  • Muscle cramps, fatigue
  • Dizziness, blurry vision
  • Nausea, excessive sweating
  • Pale or flushed skin
  • Fast, shallow breathing

What to Do in an Emergency:

  • Call 911 from an Ingalls phone or 228-935-6101 from a cell
  • Move the person to a cool area, help them sit and give water if they’re alert
  • If they can’t move, clear the area around them and stay with them
  • Cool them with shade, water, fans, ice packs or wet towels while waiting for help

Hydration is Key:

  • Hydrate before your shift — start the day before
  • Drink 2–3 bottles of water per hour during high heat
  • For every 2 bottles of water, drink 1 Gatorade, Powerade or use an electrolyte packet
  • Avoid alcohol and carbonated drinks 24 hours before working in heat

How to Get Help:

  • Dial 911 from any Ingalls phone
  • Call 228-935-6101 from your cell

Start hydrating early. Stay alert. Respond fast.