Spike in heat-related emergency calls: EMS
Posted Jun 29, 2021 1:47 pm.
CALGARY – As a heatwave continues in Calgary, paramedics say they’re dealing with a massive spike of heat-related emergencies.
Since Friday, paramedics have been at 40 heat and sun-related emergencies, mostly for heat exhaustion.
RELATED: Watch for warning signs of heatstroke, warns EMS
Stuart Brideaux with EMS says heat exhaustion can set in fairly quickly and heat stroke will need immediate medical attention.
“Heat exhaustion is when the body is stressed but it still actually able to actually cope with the heat and the sun for a limited period of time–in other words, you’re still sweating and may recognize you’re feeling unwell and need to get out of the heat and sun and get some rehydration,” he said.
“The issue with heat stroke is that’s a more dire medical emergency and the body’s ability to actually cool itself is gone.”
RELATED:
- Cooling centres not open currently, can open if needed: Nenshi
- Calgary could shatter heat records this week, weather warning in effect
- Calgary shelters in urgent need of water, sunscreen
He says if someone you know gets to the point of heatstroke, you should call 911 and do your best to provide shelter, be it shade, or cooling them with a fan or air-conditioning.
Brideaux also says to make sure you get them some water.
