As northern Utah approaches triple-digit heat, a reminder about how quickly heat stroke can happen

SALT LAKE CITY — Heat stroke can happen in as little as 10 minutes according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Northern Utah temperatures are expected to hit 100 degrees on Tuesday. Because local emergency rooms see an uptick in activity when temperatures climb this high, emergency officials are reminding you to stay out of the heat.

“Avoidance is really the best way to go. If you don’t have that option, one of the things is making sure you’re well hydrated and making sure you’re well hydrated with electrolytes,” said Dr. Jeff Druck, University of Utah Emergency Department.

Recognize the symptoms of heat stroke

Because heat stroke can come on quickly, it’s important to recognize the symptoms.  The lack of sweat despite a high body temperature is a warning sign. And if dizziness turns into disorientation, get help right away.

“That’s the true emergency.  That’s something we hate to see in the emergency department. We need to rapidly cool people and do a bunch of other stuff,” said Druck.

It’s also good to know if you are more likely to experience heat-related illness.

“If you have other debilitating illnesses, even just being elderly, you’re less likely to acclimate to the heat.  And so you’re more likely to have either heat exhaustion or heat stroke,” said Druck.

Hydration will be your best friend during extreme heat, but don’t only rely on water.

“The problem with just straight water is that it can lead to electrolyte imbalances that can cause more serious problems,” said Druck.

Related: Utahns may soon face watering restrictions, water managers say