Metro EMS Crews Prepare for Hotter Days

Summer Heat Increases Demand for EMS Assistance

Summer in Johnson County, Kansas implies an increase in the number of calls received by EMS teams, with heat issues rising to the forefront as high temperatures start to afflict residents. Battling soaring temperatures, local teams are bracing themselves for the oncoming demands of summer.

“When it gets warmer, we get busier,” says Chris Winger, Johnson County MED-ACT Division Chief of Operations. The teams have to adapt to the changing weather conditions, switching to lighter uniform options, ensuring regular breaks, and emphasizing hydration. There is also a focus on providing fire crews with the necessary means to persist in their jobs amid this heat.

Hydration as the Key

Staying hydrated, Winger explains, is one of the most critical aspects of coping with the heat. Despite deceptive winds, the risks of dehydration can be exacerbated as sweat evaporates, making it vital to supplement the body’s water levels continually.

Heat Emergencies and Prevention

Once someone experiences a heat emergency, they become more susceptible to future incidents. Symptoms such as headaches, nausea, dizziness, and ceasing to sweat acts as warning signals, warranting immediate retreat to cooler areas.

Resource Management for Heat Emergencies

EMS crews have lined up various methods to combat heat emergencies. Resource gathering plays a significant part in their arsenal, with cold water immersion, access to hydrant water, and ice for cooling along with real-time monitoring using specialized tools. This bolstering of resources and strategies becomes instrumental in preparing for the influx of emergencies as the summer heat creeps in.

Proactive Measures and Cooling Centers

The oncoming heat wave serves as a reminder of the importance of protective measures such as hats, sunscreen, and fans. Keeping the community in mind, Johnson County Libraries open their doors as cooling centers. Elissa Andre, the Communications Manager for Johnson County Libraries, invites people to take advantage of the cooling spaces provided in the library. You can find other cooling stations across the city.