How should an athlete's body be cooled if they are experiencing exertional heatstroke?

The most effective method for cooling an athlete experiencing exertional heatstroke involves stripping clothing and immersing them in cool water. This approach helps to rapidly reduce body temperature, which is critical in a heatstroke situation because the body’s temperature regulation mechanisms can fail, leading to severe complications.

Immersion in cool water allows for efficient heat exchange, drawing heat away from the body at a much faster rate than other methods. This is especially important in managing heatstroke, where every moment counts in preventing potentially life-threatening consequences. Stripping the athlete's clothing also promotes better heat dissipation and prevents insulation that can occur with wet or heavy clothing.

While other options, such as using ice bags or having the athlete drink cold fluids, may contribute to cooling, they are not as effective as full-body immersion. The use of electrical fans, while beneficial in aiding cooling, does not provide the same rapid temperature reduction as immersion in cool water. This emphasis on comprehensive cooling strategies is vital in athletic training and emergency response scenarios to ensure athlete safety and recovery.