How to recognise heatstroke and what to do when you are hiking or running in the mountains
- In Hong Kong’s humid summers heatstroke strikes even the most prepared hikers, so make sure you know how to treat it when it happens
Heatstroke is common in Hong Kong’s humid summers. When your body overheats in the hills, it is dangerous and not the sort of thing you can push through and think your way out of. Your body will refuse to work, and you will beg for more water.
Make sure you can recognise the signs of heatstroke and can administer help.
Adjust for summer
Before you start your hike or run, adjust your goals. You will not set personal bests in the heat. Your body will work just as hard to go a fraction of the speed. Remain safe by allowing more time on your hikes.
Set out early or late, or plan a route that has shade, to avoid the hottest part of the day. Some routes go via water or streams, which can provide a welcome dip on a hot day that keeps your core temperature down.
Freeze a bottle of water the night before and put it in your bag, next to your water or your drinking bladder. This will keep your water cool and by the time you’ve emptied your first one, the second will be melted, ready to drink and still cold.