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IEMS prepares for surge in heat-related calls during stretch of 90-degree days

"People's preexisting medical conditions tend to get worse in the heat more consistently than colder temperatures," said Mark Liao, IEMS medical director.

INDIANAPOLIS — Every time there's a heat wave in central Indiana, Indianapolis EMS says they see a rise in heat-related calls. This week is no different.

According to the department, medics received 11 heat-related calls over the weekend, and they expect more this week.

"All across the board we are seeing increases in respiratory distress, dehydration, feeling lightheaded and all of those types of calls," said Mark Liao, IEMS medical director.

Liao said a lot of the injuries they see are from preexisting medical conditions.

RELATED: Heat wave builds this week | June 17, 2024

"People's preexisting medical conditions tend to get worse in the heat more consistently than colder temperatures," Liao said.

What symptoms should you look out for?

For heat exhaustion, the symptoms are: 

  • Dizziness

  • Thirst

  • Heavy sweating

  • Nausea

RELATED: How to beat the heat during Indy's summer scorcher

For heat stroke:

  • Confusion

  • Unconsciousness

Either way, IEMS says you need to call 911 immediately.

Once you are out of the heat for the day, IEMS says you should "heat dump," where you spend the night in the AC and even take cold showers.

"Every day is important that we get some relief from that heat," Liao said. 

With thousands of people downtown this week, IEMS also urges people to pay attention to how long you've been outside and make sure everyone around you is staying safe and cool.

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