Heat-related illnesses usually arise during tough physical exercise that may or may not occur in hot conditions. This type of injury can occur anywhere in the world, and we have acted on a number of serious heat injury cases where injury has occurred in the UK, as well as overseas.

The symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke include:

• Muscular weakness and cramps
• A headache
• Rapid heartbeat
• Fatigue
• Dizziness and nausea
• Confusion
• Excessive sweating
• High body temperature
• Heat cramps in the arms, legs and stomach

The situation can escalate quickly if it is not managed correctly, and the most serious cases can lead to coma, organ failure and death.

Heat injuries are preventable with the right management, and the MoD has a duty of care to protect personnel by assessing risks properly and managing them appropriately. This includes ensuring that training and other exercises are carried out safely by:

• Giving personnel the training and tools to recognise and protect themselves against injury
• Carrying out exercises in reasonable temperatures and conditions
• Providing water and sufficient breaks to help personnel maintain a normal core body temperature
• Providing the right personal protective equipment, clothing and shelter
• Monitoring for the signs of heat injury and providing proper treatment

When the MoD fails to carry out these duties, it can result in unnecessary suffering for you and your colleagues.

To support a military heat injury compensation claim, you will need to provide a range of evidence that demonstrates the nature and cause of your injury, as well as the impact it has had on your life. The following types of evidence will support your case:

• Medical records: detailed medical documentation of your injury, including diagnosis, treatment received, and any ongoing health issues. This can include records from both military and civilian healthcare providers.
• Incident reports: any official reports from the time of the incident, such as those filed by your commanding officer or medical staff, can prove the circumstances under which the injury occurred.
• Witness statements: testimonies from fellow service personnel who were present at the time of the injury can provide vital corroboration of the conditions you were exposed to and the events leading up to your heat injury.
• Training and operational records: documents detailing the training exercises or operational duties being undertaken at the time of the incident, including risk assessments, safety briefings and any instructions provided by the chain of command.
• Personal diary or notes: your own account of the events and the effects of the injury can help to demonstrate the personal impact, including any limitations on daily activities, mental health effects, and ongoing medical issues.
• Expert opinions: medical or occupational health experts can provide their opinions on the causes and long-term effects of your injury. This can help to establish a link between the conditions you were exposed to and the health issues you are experiencing.

Gathering this evidence as soon as possible after the injury occurs can strengthen your claim and  our experienced solicitors at JMW can guide you through the process of collecting all of the necessary documentation and presenting it effectively.

You typically have three years from the date of your injury, or from when you became aware that your injury was linked to your service, to bring a military heat injury compensation claim. This is known as the ‘limitation period’. It is essential to start the claims process as soon as possible, as evidence is much easier to secure in the immediate aftermath of an incident.

There are exceptions to this rule, and if you are unsure whether you are within the limitation period, our team can provide guidance on your specific circumstances.

Starting your claim early not only complies with the limitation period but also allows us to secure interim support and medical care where needed.