You are responding to a call for assistance for a person feeling ill after heavy physical work in hot weather. What is your first action?

The first action in this scenario is to begin immediate cooling with available resources. When someone feels ill after heavy physical work in hot weather, they may be experiencing heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion or heat stroke. These conditions can quickly become serious if not addressed promptly.

Immediate cooling is critical because it helps to lower the individual's body temperature and can prevent further complications. This may involve moving the person to a cooler area, removing excess clothing, using cool towels or water to aid in cooling the skin, and providing hydration if the person is conscious and able to drink.

Responding with cooling measures addresses the most urgent need—the individual’s elevation in body temperature—before moving on to other potential responses, such as checking for responsiveness or calling for medical support. Each situation involves assessing for serious conditions, but in the case presented, prioritizing cooling is paramount.