Heat Prompts Concern for Health of Ohio Firefighters
The Miami Valley is now in Day 2 of a dangerous three-day heat wave. Temperatures are expected to be in the mid-90s with a heat index well over 100 degrees.
In Harrison Township, an overnight house and the extreme heat had firefighters working in shifts to contain the small blaze. Fire officials were prompted to bring in a rehabilitation unit, which would provide ice, water and other fluids for firefighters.
Investigators said firefighters can get quickly overheated while carrying almost 70 pounds of equipment and having to face extreme heat from fires.
Several communities around the region are working to make sure their residents are safe from the extreme heat.
In Clark County, residents are being urged by the health department to stay in the shade and drink plenty of water. Health officials said those who work outside must take great precautions to make sure they do not get dehydrated.
Officials in Clark County said if temperatures continue to increase they may be prompted to issue a heat emergency. If that happens, several cooling centers will be opened.
In Vandalia, city leaders decided to open a couple a cooling centers where residents who may not have air conditioning can come and get cooled off.
One of the cooling centers is located at the Vandalia Recreation Center on Stonequarry Road. The second cooling location is at Vandalia Fire Station No. 2 and is located on Brownschool Road.
Residents can call 898-4493 for more information.
Health officials around the region recommend wearing lightweight and light-colored clothing and to drink plenty of water.
For more information on how to protect yourself against extreme heat, Click Here!
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