If not treated, heat exhaustion can lead to heat stroke which is life threatening and indicated by hot, dry red skin and anxious or irrational behavior. Treatment includes getting into a shaded area and cooling exposed skin areas with wet cloths. Summer thundershowers build quickly in the desert, drenching unprepared hikers. Such soaking makes hypothermia a real possibility even in the summer. Hypothermia results when the body cannot keep itself warm.
Early symptoms are shivering, drowsiness, and fatigue.
The patient should be given dry clothing, hot drinks, and be protected from the wind, rain and cold. In the event of an emergency, contact a park ranger. Whether day hiking or backpacking, please take time to ask at any visitor area about Petrified Forest National Park's regulations. These restrictions were developed to prevent environmental damage, and violators may be fined under federal law. DO NOT collect or displace any natural or cultural object you may find during your hike.