Raves and heat stroke

Most deaths at raves result from overheating and dehydration. Crowding, poor ventilation, and nonstop dancing contribute to water loss through perspiration, and to dangerously high body temperatures.People who are dancing should drink about two cups of water (500 ml) an hour, to rehydrate and to help the body regulate its temperature. Isotonic sports drinks can be used occasionally, but shouldn’t be the only source of liquids. Raves usually have a “chill” area, a good place for dancers to rest. A good guideline is to rest 15 minutes for every hour of dancing.


The Rave Scene

The warning signs of overheating and dehydration are: feeling hot, unwell and confused; dark urine or being unable to urinate; not sweating even when dancing; being unable to speak properly; headache; vomiting; high resting heart rate; and fainting, collapsing or convulsing.


The Rave Scene

At the first sign of dehydration, ravers should lie or sit down, sip water slowly and splash some on their skin, and ask a friend to stay with them, perhaps fanning them, until they are well again.


The Rave Scene