The Department of Health (DOH) warned the public against heat stroke as such illness is possible at this time amid the hot weather this dry season. The DOH said that heat stroke "occurs when the body becomes unable to control its temperature. In this situation, the body’s temperature rises quickly, and the body’s sweating mechanism (which is used to cool down the body) fails." Some of the factors that increase the risk for heat stroke include hot and humid weather, vigorous exercise in hot weather, dehydration, and too much direct exposure to the sun, the DOH said. "People with heat-related illnesses typically present with dizziness, vomiting, headache, and warm, flushed skin," the DOH said. "Those who have heat stroke in particular usually have signs pointing to a more severe condition, like: a very high fever of at least 40°C, rapid heartbeat and breathing, convulsions, and unconsciousness," it added. The DOH listed some strategies to help prevent heat stroke. These include limiting the amount of time spent outdoors, drinking plenty of water; wearing lightweight, light-colored, and loose-fitting clothes. The public should also be "avoiding drinks with caffeine, like coffee and tea." It is also best to schedule outdoor activities during “cooler times of the day, if possible," and take frequent breaks from the heat when outdoors. Meanwhile, the DOH reminded the public that heat stroke is a "medical emergency." If an individual is showing signs of heat stroke, the person "should be moved to a shady spot or indoors, and should lie down with their legs elevated." "If able to drink liquids, they should also sip cool water. For patients with heat stroke, it is most important to begin cooling their bodies right away; this could be done by removing their clothing, applying cool water to the skin, and fanning the individual," it said. "Ice packs could also be applied to the armpits, wrists, ankles, and groin," it added. After the said procedures were done, the patient should be immediately brought to the hospital so the person could receive further medical support, the DOH said.