Issue 520 – Beware! You Can Get Heatstroke Indoors Too.

Taiwan’s summer heat is unbearable, and the number of people seeking medical treatment for heat-related illnesses continues to hit new highs. Surprisingly, not all cases occur under the blazing sun—heat-related illnesses can happen indoors too! But how is this possible if there’s no direct sunlight indoors? Why do children trapped in cars suffer from heat exhaustion, and why have some elderly individuals died in locked vehicles? Let us explain.

In fact, the causes of heat-related illnesses go beyond outdoor overexertion under the sun. They can also occur indoors. The primary reason is poor air circulation, which slows down the body’s ability to dissipate heat. When the body generates heat faster than it can release it, and the ambient heat cannot escape from the enclosed space, the temperature inside continues to rise. If the body’s thermoregulation fails, heat-related symptoms can develop.

Elderly individuals and children are especially vulnerable due to their weaker ability to regulate body temperature. When indoor temperatures rise and excessive sweating leads to dehydration, the risk of heatstroke increases. If you have elderly people or children at home, be particularly cautious of heat-related risks caused by high indoor temperatures. Maintaining good airflow is the best way to prevent this condition, while regular hydration can also reduce the risk. Don’t assume that being indoors means you’re safe. Whether indoors or outdoors, symptoms like dizziness, fatigue, shortness of breath, rapid heartbeat, or elevated body temperature could indicate heatstroke. In such cases, ensure hydration and proper ventilation. If symptoms worsen, leave the hot environment immediately and seek medical attention.

In this scorching weather, parents often travel by car with their children. Thinking a quick stop to buy a drink or pick up food won’t take long, they sometimes leave their child alone in the car. This is extremely dangerous. When a car is parked, it becomes a sealed oven. Under the intense summer sun, and without air circulation, the car’s interior temperature rises rapidly. The longer the car sits, the hotter it becomes, significantly increasing the risk of heat-related injuries.

Currently, outdoor summer temperatures in Taiwan often exceed 35°C and sometimes reach as high as 37°C. Under such conditions, the temperature inside a car can rise about 5°C every ten minutes. After prolonged exposure, the interior can reach over 60°C. Even a healthy adult would find such heat unbearable after just 5–10 minutes—let alone a child. Never allow a moment of adult negligence to lead to tragedy. Leaving a child alone in a car is a serious safety hazard that must be avoided.

During the sweltering summer months, preventing heatstroke is crucial. Don’t assume that being indoors eliminates the risk. A hot and stuffy environment can also lead to heat-related illnesses. Ensuring good indoor ventilation and staying well-hydrated is the key to staying safe. Be extra vigilant with elderly people and children for any signs of heat-related symptoms and seek treatment early to prevent complications. Also, remember that a closed vehicle is like an oven—never leave a child unattended inside. Check for any malfunctions in central locking systems. A little attention can prevent a great deal of regret.

Final reminders:

1. Heatstroke can occur indoors—don’t assume you’re safe just because there’s no direct sunlight.
2. The elderly and children are more prone to indoor heat-related illnesses due to weaker temperature regulation.
3. Never leave a child alone in a sealed vehicle.
4. Maintain good indoor ventilation and stay hydrated to prevent indoor heat-related illnesses.

Source: Health Promotion Administration, Ministry of Health and Welfare – Health 99