PENDER COUNTY, N.C. (WECT) – Summer is just getting started, and the heat can be difficult for first responders working to save lives.
Parts of southeastern North Carolina have already been placed on heat advisories. Randy Brinckman from Pender County EMS and Fire says the high temperatures do not make work any easier.
“On car accidents and stuff like that, the firefighters have to be out on the roadway and the roadways are super hot; the blacktop, the asphalt is super hot out there and it really bakes you from the top up,” Brinckman said.
He says during the summer months, crews watch out for one another and he encourages neighbors to do the same thing when spending time outdoors.
He recommends drinking water and plenty of fluids even when not feeling thirsty. Wear loose-fitting clothes, and stay in cool areas. He says remember to wear and reapply sunscreen and says people should not drink alcohol when spending time outdoors.
“It’s a diuretic; it makes you urinate out your fluids. A lot of people don’t realize you need to replace the fluids,” said Brinckman.
He says to watch out for the early signs of heat-related illness and pay close attention to any symptoms.
“If you come across somebody that has heat-related injuries or illnesses, especially if they are unconscious, that’s a problem. You want to make sure you call 911 as soon as possible and get these people taken care of right away,” Brinckman continued.
More information about heat-related illnesses can be found here.
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