How local first responders assist with medical aid during hot temperatures
Karina Bazarte joins El Centro Fire Department on a ride along to see how they provide medical aid during the hot season
EL CENTRO, Calif. (KYMA, KECY) - As the temperatures rise, the type of medical aid requests change in El Centro. We got a first-hand look at this change as we rode along with the El Centro Fire Department.
Firefighters said it's a change of pace. During this time, there are more heat-related calls, while in the winter, there are more calls for common illnesses.
A firefighter and paramedic said the most at risk are the homeless, people who use public transportation or walk outside and the elderly.Â
“For heat exhaustion, they're going to be sweating pretty good, they're going to have cool skin. They're going to be complaining of weakness, maybe cramping. But a heat stroke patient is going to be very warm and dry to the touch, beat red if it's gotten pretty bad, they are going to be what we call altered or confused. They are not making sense when we ask them questions," said Firefighter Paramedic Tom Hahn.
The El Centro Fire Department reminds the community to stay hydrated, avoid going outside when it's hot, and avoid drinking sugary drinks.
