Effective November 18, 2009, the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission changed their guidelines for distance learning. Students are now required to spend a minimum amount of time on each course page before proceeding to the certification exam.

Click here to go to the latest version of the Today's Hunter in North Carolina online course—the official hunter education course of the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission.

The following course material is for reference only. Please go to the new course to complete your North Carolina certification.

Heat Exhaustion

Heat exhaustion is the opposite of hypothermia—the core body temperature increases, usually as a result of hot and humid conditions, plus a lack of water.

Heat Index Chart

Prevention of Heat Exhaustion

Drink plenty of water.
Take frequent breaks if you’re hiking to or from your hunting spot, especially when carrying a large load.
Dress in layers, and shed layers as physical activity increases.

Symptoms of Heat Exhaustion

Pale and clammy skin
Weakness
Nausea
Headache
Muscle cramps

Treatment of Heat Exhaustion

Move to a cooler place and drink water.
Fan to lower body temperature, but don't over-chill.

Heat Stroke

Heat stroke should be treated as a medical emergency—it can be fatal.

Symptoms of Heat Stroke

Dry, hot, and flushed skin—dark or purple in color
Dilated pupils
Rapid, weak pulse
Shallow breathing
High temperature—may be in excess of 106° Fahrenheit

Treatment of Heat Stroke

Wrap in a sheet and soak with cool—not cold—water.
Fan, but don't over-chill.
Get to a hospital immediately.