The Arc (Australian Resuscitation Council) has released an update to the guidelines on the management of Heat related illnesses. It is important to note that the Recommendations, Recognition and Prevention components have not changed. The update document is attached below for you to download if you wish.

The most significant changes you will find with this new guideline is in Section 4: Management

• You will notice the Management of Heat Illness is now split up into individuals over 5 years of age and then children 5 years of age and under;

While waiting for professional assistance for individuals over 5 years of age:

• Immerse (i.e. whole-body from the neck down) in cold water (a bath if possible, as cold as possible) for 15 minutes. This is the most effective method of cooling.

• If this is not available, a combination of the following methods should be used:

• Wet the person with cold or cool water, under a shower if safe, or with a hose or other water source
• Apply ice packs (groin, armpits, facial cheeks, palms and soles)
• Repeatedly moisten the skin with a moist cloth or atomizer spray
• Fan continuously

While waiting for professional assistance for children 5 years of age and under a combination of the following methods should be used:

• Cool in a tepid (lukewarm) bath sponging frequently if bath available or:

• Repeatedly moisten the skin with a moist cloth or atomizer spray

• Fan continuously