For treating heat-related illness, what should you use to cool the victim?

Cooling a victim suffering from heat-related illness is crucial for preventing further complications. The use of a wet cloth is effective because it helps to not only cool the body surface but also promotes evaporation, which is a natural cooling mechanism. When the cloth is damp, it aids in the dissipation of heat from the body as the moisture evaporates. This method can help lower the victim's core temperature in a controlled manner, minimizing the risk of shock or rapid temperature fluctuations that can occur with other cooling methods.

Using ice packs or cold water can lower body temperature too rapidly, which may lead to additional complications such as hypothermia or shock. While fans increase airflow and assist in evaporation when combined with moisture, relying solely on fanning may not sufficiently lower the body temperature effectively and promptly. Therefore, employing a wet cloth leverages both cooling and evaporation to achieve the desired outcome in the safe treatment of heat-related illnesses.