Heat cramps are painful muscle crams caused by a heavy loss of salt in the body. It is possible to lose more than quart of water per hour through sweating alone. Generally the cramps disappear with treatment. Move the victim to shade, loosen clothing and administer 8 oz. of water every 15-20 minutes. And remember, thirst is not an adequate indicator of dehydration.
Treatment includes laying the victim in a cool, shady area, elevating feet and loosening clothing.
Wipe victim off with cool water and fan repeatedly until body temperature drops. Have victim drink one canteen full of cool water containing a salt solution. Heat stroke occurs when a person becomes unable to control body temperature. The victim's temperature rises rapidly, the body's sweating mechanism fails and the victim is unable to cool down. This illness can cause death or permanent disability if not treated immediately.