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Best practices for cooling a heatstroke victim without ice?

April 5, 2026

Quick Answer

Remove excess clothing, fan the victim, and use cool, wet towels or cloths to lower their body temperature.

Cooling the Victim

To cool a heatstroke victim without ice, first remove any excess clothing, especially in hot and humid environments. This allows for better air circulation and can help the body cool down.

Using Water for Cooling

Cool the victim by sponging them with cool, wet towels or cloths. The optimal temperature for the water is between 50-60 degrees Fahrenheit. You can also use a spray bottle to mist the victim with cool water, but avoid spraying the face, as this can cause further cooling and lead to hypothermia.

Evaporative Cooling

Fan the victim to increase the rate of evaporation and enhance cooling. Aim the fan directly at the victim to maximize cooling effects. If a fan is not available, you can use a leaf blower or other high-velocity air source to achieve a similar effect.

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