Magen David Adom Paramedic Warns Heatstroke Risks Despite Drinking Plenty of Water

Dr. Shafir Botner, chief paramedic at Magen David Adom (MDA), issued a critical warning about the dangers of heatstroke during the peak summer heat in Israel. In a special interview, he emphasized the crucial difference between dehydration and heatstroke, noting that drinking large amounts of water, even five liters, does not prevent heatstroke, which can be fatal. "Heatstroke is a disease that kills, not just a lack of fluids," Botner explained, highlighting that the human body is designed to operate around 37 degrees Celsius, and excessive external heat can overwhelm the body's cooling mechanisms, leading to death.

Botner pointed out that while dehydration usually presents early symptoms like dizziness, weakness, headaches, and dark urine, heatstroke can rapidly cause confusion, loss of consciousness, heart rhythm disturbances, and death. He stressed that heatstroke deaths are more common than those from dehydration. Vulnerable groups include infants, people with disabilities, and the elderly, who may not communicate their distress effectively.

MDA also reported a worrying rise in drowning incidents during the "Bein Hazmanim" vacation period, especially in unsupervised water sources such as private pools, inflatable pools, and beaches without lifeguards. Botner warned against the dangerous trend among youth to sunbathe during peak UV radiation hours to "get color," calling it extremely unhealthy. He recommended wearing light clothing, hats, and using fans to stay cool.

In case of encountering someone showing signs of heat distress, MDA advises immediate emergency calls, moving the person to shade and cool environments, loosening tight clothing, and cautiously providing cold drinks only if the person is fully conscious and not nauseous. Botner urged the public to be vigilant, follow safety guidelines, and avoid relying on dangerous myths about heat protection.