Columbus Division of Fire reports uptick in heat-related calls as high temps linger
The Columbus Division of Fire responded to 39 heat-related calls this week, leading to 31 people being transported to local hospitals, according to data from CFD.
Since Monday, CFD has received an average of around 10 heat-related calls per day, with the most, 14, occurring on Thursday. During a normal week, they receive an average of five heat-related calls per day.
No deaths from this week's heat wave have been reported, according to the Franklin County Coroner's Office.
Heat-related article: Columbus Symphony's Popcorn Pops concert on Friday canceled due to heat
According to a heat map of this week's calls, most of them occurred around downtown Columbus and North Linden.
Heat waves increase the risk of heat exhaustion, heat stroke, dehydration and breathing problems. People with pre-existing physical and mental conditions, along with children under five and adults over 65, are at an increased risk of heat-related illness and death.
More on the Columbus heatwave: Heat-related illnesses spike in Columbus during heatwave; vulnerable populations at risk
How to avoid overheating, heat stroke during heat wave
Columbus Public Health offers some tips to beat the heat and care for yourself during the heat wave. They are:
Drink plenty of water. Do not wait until you are thirsty.
Stay in air conditioning whenever possible. If you do not have an air conditioner, use movie theatres, malls, libraries and other public places that are cool.
Avoid beverages with alcohol, caffeine and sugar because they will dehydrate you.
Eat light meals.
Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing.
Avoid strenuous activities, and limit them to morning and evening hours.
Learn the signs and symptoms of heat-related illnesses and how to treat them.
Check on family members, friends and neighbors.
Never leave people or pets in a closed car.
This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Columbus Fire responded to 39 heat-related calls this week, no deaths
