As temperatures soar into the triple digits, paramedics in Exeter have attended to twelve heat-related emergencies this season.
Exeter District Ambulance provides services to Exeter, Farmersville, Woodlake, and surrounding areas. Paramedic Jeremy Thomas advises the public to watch for symptoms such as throbbing headaches, heavy sweating followed by dry, red skin, and body temperatures exceeding 103 degrees.
“You’ll notice people becoming lethargic and sleepy. They might stop making sense and become confused. At that point, it is a serious indication that their body is no longer compensating for the heat stress,” explained Jeremy.
To prevent heat-related illnesses, experts recommend drinking plenty of water, avoiding direct sunlight, and wearing light-colored clothing. Outdoor workers should take frequent breaks in the shade or air-conditioned areas.
Individuals over 65, children under 5, and those with pre-existing conditions like asthma are at higher risk. Jeremy highlighted that people with serious health issues, such as heart problems, high blood pressure, obesity, and diabetes, are more sensitive to heat-related problems.
Last year, over 2,300 people in the U.S. died from heat-related causes. Dr. Melody Nameni from Adventist Health has noticed an increase in heat-related calls at the hospital and her local clinic in Tulare over the past few weeks.
Dr. Nameni also stressed that pets face similar risks. “Their bodies work similarly to ours. Ensure they have access to water, especially for long periods. If your dog or cat is not responding, it is definitely something to be concerned about,” she said.
Preventative measures, such as staying hydrated the day before exposure to heat, are crucial. Dr. Nameni also urged people to speak up if they see someone struggling with the heat, as it can affect even the healthiest individuals.
