Mount Pleasant, S.C. – As temperatures rise and a potential record-breaking heat wave approaches this weekend, Mount Pleasant firefighters are stepping up their preparations to handle the intense heat while ensuring their safety. Although firefighters train year-round to adjust to the heat, the extreme conditions require additional resources and extra hydration to keep them safe.
Heat Protocols and Safety Measures
Mount Pleasant Fire Department Chief, Mike Mixon, explained that during extreme heat, the department follows strict protocols to protect firefighters. “We have protocols in our guidelines, and stop training when it’s too hot, or we’ve reached the humidity threshold,” Mixon said. If necessary, training sessions are limited to conserve energy and ensure that firefighters remain prepared for emergency calls.
Challenges of Heat-Related Calls
The increase in heat-related calls this summer has brought new challenges. Firefighters are often required to wear heavy protective gear during every call, regardless of the temperature. The gear, while crucial for their safety, traps sweat and heat, causing firefighters to heat up quickly. Captain David Carter explained that after intense work in the heat, they need to take breaks to recover. “It’s a good 20 to 30 minutes worth of work, and we’re going to need about 10 to 15 minutes to recover and get water and cool off,” Carter said.
Hydration and Cooling Measures
To combat the effects of heat, the station ensures that firefighters stay hydrated throughout their shifts. Hydration stations are stocked with electrolytes, and firefighters take regular breaks to cool off, ensuring they’re ready to respond when called. Chief Mixon pointed out that while they’ve seen a slight increase in heat-related calls, they are always prepared to handle emergencies. “All of our trucks are permanent, capable, and have RV fluids, all the things necessary to treat somebody with a heat-related emergency,” he said.
Preventing Heat-Related Emergencies
In addition to preparing for the increased demand on their services, the fire department is urging the public to take precautions during the extreme heat. “We’re hoping to prevent heat-related emergencies in the first place,” Mixon said. He recommended that people take breaks when working outside, stay hydrated, and avoid alcohol and caffeine, especially during the hottest parts of the day.
Additional Resources for the Weekend
To further prepare for the upcoming heat wave, the fire department will be bringing in additional personnel and resources through their partnership with Charleston County. This will allow firefighters to take more frequent breaks and ensure they can continue responding to emergencies safely throughout the weekend.
