How firefighters avoid heat exhaustion over summer months

Triple-digit temperatures are common in Yuma during the summertime.

This causes the Yuma Fire Department (YFD) to prepare firefighters for the heat by equipping them with rehabilitation vehicles.

According to YFD, rehabilitation vehicles are a place for firefighters to rest, fuel up, and get their vitals checked.

These vehicles are also equipped with water, snacks, and air conditioning.

According to the Fire Department, the vehicle is the perfect spot for firefighters to cool off and rest.

Since most firefighters endure all types of temperatures and conditions of heat, Tre Kereluk, a firefighter with YFD, said a place for firefighters to recover is essential.

“[We are] working in temperatures up to 1,000 degrees,” Kereluk said. “With gear that weighs 50 to 60 pounds…having this unit with air conditioning, towels, and water to put back into your body is very key to maintaining your performance throughout the day.”

The Yuma Fire Department said preparing for the heat includes placing firefighters in outdoor physical training every day.