Heat Awareness, Care Options & Campus Resources

As summer heats up, it’s essential to stay alert to the risks of heat-related illnesses—especially for employees who work outdoors or in hot environments. Whether you’re spending time outside for your job, exercising, or enjoying the sunshine, knowing how to prevent, recognize, and respond to heat stress is key to staying safe and healthy.

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🔥 Heat-Related Illnesses: Know the Signs & What to Do

Heat Stroke – Medical Emergency

• Symptoms: 103˚F+ body temperature, red/hot/damp skin, strong pulse, confusion, fainting

• Action: Call 911 immediately, move to a cooler area, cool the body with cloths or a bath. Do not give fluids.

Heat Exhaustion

• Symptoms: Heavy sweating, clammy skin, fast/weak pulse, dizziness, vomiting

• Action: Rest in a cool place, loosen clothes, apply cool cloths or bathe, sip water

• Seek medical help if: Symptoms worsen, last more than 1 hour, or involve vomiting

Heat Cramps

• Symptoms: Muscle pain or spasms during heavy activity

• Action: Stop, cool down, and hydrate with water or sports drinks

• Get help if: Cramps last over an hour, you’re on a low-sodium diet, or have a heart condition

Sunburn

• Symptoms: Red, warm, painful skin, possible blisters

• Action: Cool cloths or baths, moisturizing lotion, avoid sun until healed. Don’t break blisters.

Heat Rash

• Symptoms: Clusters of red blisters or bumps in warm, sweaty areas

• Action: Stay in a dry, cool place, keep the rash dry, use powder to ease discomfort

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👷‍♂️ Extra Caution for Outdoor Workers

Employees working outside—such as in grounds or maintenance —face increased risk of heat-related illnesses. Take extra precautions:

• Drink water frequently, even if you’re not thirsty

• Take regular breaks in shade or air-conditioned areas

• Wear light, breathable clothing and a hat

• Know the signs of heat illness and speak up if you feel unwell

If you experience a heat-related illness while working, it may qualify as a workers’ compensation incident. Be sure to report any injury or illness that occurs on the job.
📄 More info: MSU Workers’ Compensation Program

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🏥 Choosing the Right Level of Care

When health concerns come up—especially in the heat—it’s important to know where to go for care.

Use the ER for life-threatening situations, like heat stroke or loss of consciousness. For other concerns, more efficient and affordable options include:

• 📞 Nurse On Call – 417.841.5566 After-hours advice with a licensed nurse for MSU-Insured Employees and Dependents Without a Mercy PCP

• 📞 Mercy On Call –MSU employees who are established with a Mercy Primary Care Provider can call their provider’s office number after hours to be connected with Mercy On Call for assistance.

• 🏥 Magers Health and Wellness Center – On-campus clinic for employees and dependents; great for heat rash, sunburn, or dehydration

• 🚶Mercy Urgent Care – Best for non-emergency issues needing quick attention (sprains, cramps, minor burns)

Need help deciding? Read: Choosing the Right Level of Care

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🌡️ Summary: Prevent & Protect

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