Chesterfield Fire treats dozens for heat-related illness, injury during heat wave
VENN
CHESTERFIELD COUNTY, Va. (WRIC) -- Chesterfield County first responders treated dozens of people for heat-related illnesses or injuries in just five days during this late June heat wave.
Heat indexes nearly hit 115 degrees across Central Virginia during the last week of June. As temperatures rose, so did instances of heat-related illnesses.
Between Sunday, June 22 and Thursday, June 26, first responders with Chesterfield County Fire and EMS treated 39 patients for heat-related illnesses or injuries. These cases represented nearly 6% of all patients seen during that 5-day period, per fire officials.
"Many of those cases involved the elderly or people whose jobs required them to work out in the heat," fire officials said.
As Central Virginia dives into the summer months, fire officials stress the importance of taking the necessary precautions to protect yourself from extreme heat.
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"Hydrate properly and stay indoors if you can," fire officials said. "Avoid outdoor activities with limited access to shade. Make sure you check on your elderly neighbors and never leave small children or pets alone in the car."
Check out this list from the Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) for more tips on how to safely enjoy summer weather.
