First Aid Tips for Summer: Heatstroke, Insect Bites, and BBQ Burns

Summer is the season of sunshine, outdoor fun, and family gatherings. But as temperatures rise and outdoor activity increases, so does the risk of common seasonal injuries.

Whether you're spending your days at the beach, hiking in the woods, or grilling in the backyard, it's essential to be prepared for medical emergencies. Here are some first aid tips for three of the most common summer hazards: heatstroke, insect bites, and BBQ burns.

1. Heatstroke: Recognise and Respond Quickly

What is it?

Heatstroke occurs when the body overheats and can't cool down effectively, often due to prolonged exposure to high temperatures or intense physical activity in the heat. It’s a medical emergency.

Signs and Symptoms:

• High body temperature (above 104°F or 40°C)
• Red, hot, dry or damp skin
• Rapid pulse
• Confusion, dizziness, or fainting
• Nausea or vomiting

First Aid Steps:

• Call emergency services immediately—heatstroke can be life-threatening.
• Move the person to a cooler place, ideally indoors or in the shade.
• Cool the body: Apply a cool cloth, ice packs to the armpits and groin, or fan the person while misting them with water.
• Do not give them anything to drink if they are unconscious or not fully alert.

2. Insect Bites: Soothe the Sting

Common Culprits:

Mosquitoes, ticks, bees, and wasps can be more than just a nuisance—they can transmit diseases or cause allergic reactions.

First Aid Steps:

• For mosquito or general bites: Wash the area with soap and water. Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling and use an over-the-counter anti-itch cream or antihistamine.
• For bee stings: Remove the stinger by scraping it out with a credit card or blunt edge (avoid squeezing it). Clean the area and apply a cold pack.
• For ticks: Use tweezers to grasp the tick close to the skin and pull it out steadily. Clean the bite area and watch for signs of Lyme disease (rash, fever, fatigue).
• For allergic reactions: If swelling is severe or affects breathing, seek emergency help and use an epinephrine auto-injector if available.

3. BBQ Burns: Treating Heat Mishaps

What Can Happen

Barbecue grills and campfires can lead to burns, often due to accidental contact with hot surfaces, flare-ups, or mishandling of lighter fluid.

First Aid Steps for Minor Burns:

• Cool the burn immediately with cold running water for at least 10–15 minutes.
• Do not apply ice, butter, or greasy substances.
• Cover with a sterile, non-stick dressing or clean cloth.
• Take over-the-counter pain relievers if needed.

When to Seek Medical Help:

• Burns that blister and cover a large area
• Burns on the face, hands, feet, or genitals
• Signs of infection: increased redness, swelling, pus, or fever

Always feel prepared for an emergency

When an emergency strikes, it is easy to become overwhelmed and panic, which can hinder your ability to respond in a useful way. Taking part in a first aid course builds confidence in the skills needed to respond in a medical emergency.

Imperative Training offers a range of comprehensive first aid courses, which can be carried out at a venue of your choosing by our experienced, engaging trainers.

View our courses here.