Which is a sign of heat stroke?

• A. Cold extremities
• B. Pale moist skin
• C. Excessive sweating
• D. Skin is red, hot and dry

Answer: (D)

Heat stroke is the most severe form of heat illness, when the body's cooling system fails and the core temperature climbs rapidly. A telltale sign is skin that is red, hot, and dry because sweating often stops. This dryness helps distinguish heat stroke from heat exhaustion, where the skin is usually moist from sweating. Cold extremities and pale, moist skin suggest poor perfusion or shock, not heat stroke, while excessive sweating is more typical of heat exhaustion. When you see red, hot, dry skin, treat it as an emergency: call for help, move the person to shade or a cooler area, remove excess clothing, and begin cooling with wet towels or a fan. If they're alert and able to drink, offer water; otherwise, wait for medical responders and monitor breathing and consciousness.