The heat equation - farmers and farm workers are at higher risk during hot weather Continual exposure to high temperature and humidity can cause heat related illnessesFarmers often take for granted the adverse health effects that stress from physical work in hot weather can produce. For heat stroke victims if ice is available, ice packs should be placed under the arm pits and groin area. Call 911 or local emergency for all heat stroke victims and when individuals with heat exhaustion or heat cramps do not begin to feel better after a few minutes of treatment. It is best to prevent heat related illness by taking several steps to protect yourself as well as your co-workers. Become familiar with signs and symptoms of heat related illnesses as well as what to do to help someone.