Valley prepares for heat wave

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Fluctuating temperatures can take a toll on your health. Paramedics say you can protect yourself by drink plenty of water. The idea may sound redundant, but paramedics say since this is the first time we're seeing triple digit heat this year many people just aren't paying attention to this critical action.

If the valley heat won't stop students and parents from watching sporting events at Bullard High School during Wednesday's 99 degree weather, athletes certainly won't give in. A lot of practices and games took place at the campus in the heat of the day.

The school's athletic director says they keep a close eye on the athletes and spectators, by setting up tarps for shade and setting out ice chests for players.

"We've been telling our kids really for the last week to make sure they're hydrated," Brandon Gilbert, the Bullard HS athletic director said. "You don't want to start hydrating the morning of an event; you really want to hydrate all week long.

American Ambulance paramedics say as we approach summer some people just aren't acclimated to the rising temperatures. "In the time that you're out in the sun make sure that you're paying attention to what your sweat level is, stay in the shade when you can," paramedic Rhett Buehler said. "Make sure you're drinking lots of fluids."

There are still more than 30 days until the official start of summer. Paramedics also say as temperatures rise, it is important to keep an eye on the elderly and groups at risk for heat-related illness.