First Aid for Heat-Related Illness — What to Do Depending on Whether the Person Is Conscious
Source material is a Korean government announcement (in Korean).
When symptoms of heat-related illness appear, if the person is conscious, move them to a cool place, lower their body temperature, give fluids, and call 119 if symptoms continue; if the person is unconscious, call 119 first, lower their body temperature without giving fluids, and transport them to a hospital.
Key facts
| Main symptoms | High body temperature, headache, dizziness, muscle cramps, and similar |
|---|---|
| If conscious | Move to a cool place → loosen clothing, lower body temperature with a wet towel or similar → give fluids such as water or a sports drink → call 119 if symptoms continue |
| If unconscious | Call 119 first → move to a cool place → loosen clothing, lower body temperature with a wet towel or similar (no fluids by mouth) → transport to a hospital |
Last checked:
Guidance has been announced on what to do when symptoms of heat-related illness appear, such as high body temperature, headache, dizziness, and muscle cramps. If the person is conscious, move them to a cool place, loosen their clothing, lower their body temperature with a wet towel or similar, and give fluids such as water or a sports drink; if symptoms continue, call 119. If the person is unconscious, call 119 first, then move them to a cool place, loosen their clothing, and lower their body temperature with a wet towel or similar without giving fluids, and transport them to a hospital.
Summaries below are factual notes based on government announcements and primary sources — not evaluations or opinions.
FAQ
Can water be given to a person who is unconscious?
No. When a person is unconscious, do not give fluids; call 119 first, then move them to a cool place, lower their body temperature, and transport them to a hospital.
What should be done if the person is conscious?
Move them to a cool place, loosen their clothing, lower their body temperature with a wet towel or similar, give fluids such as water or a sports drink, and call 119 if symptoms continue.