Central California heat prompts safety reminders with near triple-digit temperatures

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Central California is seeing near triple-digit heat, prompting an AccuWeather Heat Alert and renewed warnings from health officials that anyone can experience heat-related illness.

With temperatures rising quickly, emergency responders say they often see an increase in heat-related calls, especially during sudden spikes early in the season.

"A quick spike like this, we might expect to see a few more calls than normal pertaining to heat illness. Those calls are really going to become, like we talked about, outdoor activities such as sports, heat, working fields, people working in the trades up on roofs, that kind of stuff," said Ben Wiele, American Ambulance director of field operations.

Health officials recommend that athletes and people working outdoors take frequent breaks and seek shade whenever possible.

"Especially if you're out at an athletic event. If we can find shade under the tree. Maybe it's a little bit further away from the ballfield, but it's going to help keep you safe and you can still enjoy the game out," Wiele said.

Early-season heat can be particularly dangerous because people may not yet be acclimated to high temperatures.

"Just the heat can catch us by surprise," Wiele said.

American Ambulance urges people to act quickly if they notice signs of heat-related illness.

"Once you stop sweating, that's a real bad sign. Other bad signs that we want to be mindful of are confusion, a headache that is not abated by water or medications," Wiele said.

Officials also encourage healthy habits to help prevent heat illness, including drinking mostly water and avoiding sugary substances.

"Certainly, as it gets hot, alcohol and sugary substances will actually dehydrate you faster," Wiele said.

Families are also reminded never to leave children or pets alone inside a parked car, even for a short time.

"So when we're talking about outside weather and 95 degrees or more, you're looking at a car going temperatures well above 120 degrees. Kids and pets should not be left in the car to just go around the corner," Wiele said.

Despite the heat, some families say they are finding ways to stay safe while still enjoying summer activities.

"What I do for my son is we actually go to my mom's house at her pool. That's like his thing to do, and I would recommend either taking them to the pool or the indoor pool as well, or even just bringing them inside to the AC units," said local parent Lucia Garcia.

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