Beat this summers heat: Signs of heat-related emergencies to look out for [Video]

CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCSC) – With temperatures rising, Charleston County Emergency Medical Services are emphasizing the importance of recognizing the signs and symptoms of heat-related illnesses.

July is one of the hottest months of the year and Charleston County EMS has already begun to receive calls from people experiencing heat-related illnesses. Officials say that, when they receive a call, oftentimes the person calling is not even aware that what they are experiencing are the symptoms of a heat-related sickness.

EMS officials say to look out for dizziness, thirst, heavy sweating, nausea and weakness. These are signs of heat exhaustion, which can quickly turn into heat stroke and cause damage to internal organs, permanent disability or even death if not addressed. They say the symptoms can be vague, so even if someone is simply not feeling right then, it still needs to be taken seriously. One bad sign is if sweating stops, …