- Follow DRSABCD.
- Lie the patient down in a cool or shaded area.
- STRIP the patient of as much clothing as possible.
If the patient does not improve quickly (within 10 minutes), call Triple Zero (000) for an ambulance.
- SOAK the patient with any available water.
- FAN the patient continuously.
- Give cold water to the patient to drink if they are fully conscious and able to swallow.
If practical and possible, immersing the patient in a bath of cold water is the most effective cooling method.
For the patient more than 5 years old
- Immerse the patient (whole body from the neck down) in a bath of cold water (preferably 1–7˚) for 15 minutes.
- Continuously observe the patient to ensure an open airway in case of any change in their level of consciousness.
If a cold bath is not available, use a combination of the following:
- Wet the patient with cool or cold water under a shower or with a hose or other source of running water.
- Apply cold packs to the neck, groin, armpits, facial cheeks, palms of hands, soles of feet.
- Repeatedly wet the skin with a wet cloth or spray bottle.
- Fan continuously.
For the patient less than 5 years old
- Place the patient in a bath of lukewarm water (if available) and sponge frequently.
If a bath is not available, use a combination of the following:
- Wet the patient with cool or cold water under a shower or with a hose or other source of running water.
- Repeatedly wet the skin with a wet cloth or spray bottle.
- Fan continuously.