What is one of the first steps for treating heat exhaustion?

Removing excessive clothing is an essential first step in treating heat exhaustion because it helps to lower the person's body temperature more effectively. When a person suffers from heat exhaustion, their body is overheating due to prolonged exposure to high temperatures or vigorous physical activity. By removing excessive clothing, the skin can cool down through evaporative cooling, as airflow increases and moisture on the skin can evaporate more efficiently.

While forcing fluids is crucial for rehydration, it is typically advised to do so after ensuring that the individual is in a cooler environment and appropriately dressed. Calling for a medic may be necessary in more severe cases, but immediate action to ease the body temperature is vital in the initial treatment phase. Administering medication is not a primary step for treating heat exhaustion, as the focus should be on cooling the body and rehydrating the individual first.