Heat Wave Emergency Continues, Report Heat-Related Illnesses to 119

Ulsan Fire Department: "Reduce Daytime Activities and Wear Breathable Clothing"

In the event of a heat-related illness during a heatwave, please call 119.

With the ongoing heatwave, there is a heightened alert for heat-related illnesses. The Ulsan Fire Department announced on the 8th that from May 20 to August 5 of this year, there were a total of 28 emergency dispatches related to heat-related illness patients caused by the heatwave.

According to the Ulsan Fire Department, the types of cases in the Ulsan area were as follows: heat exhaustion 13 cases (46.4%), heat stroke and heat cramps 6 cases each (21.4%), and heat syncope 3 cases (10.7%).

By age group, the cases were most common among people in their 50s and 60s (21.4% each), followed by those in their 70s (17.8%) and 30s (14.2%). More than 50% of the cases occurred in the elderly aged 60 or older.

In particular, as the recent heatwave continues, the number of heat-related illness cases is expected to increase, so extra caution is required.

When a heatwave advisory is issued, it is helpful to reduce outdoor activities during the daytime as much as possible, and if unavoidable, to wear clothing made of materials that quickly absorb sweat, dry fast, and allow good ventilation to help prevent heat-related illnesses.

It is also important to drink plenty of fluids and take breaks in cool places.

Those with chronic diseases such as cardiovascular or cerebrovascular diseases, diabetes, or stroke, as well as the elderly and children, are more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses. Therefore, it is important to frequently check their health status and immediately report to 119 and visit a medical institution if any abnormal symptoms appear.

If a heat-related illness occurs, move the person to a cool place, lower their body temperature, and promptly call 119 to ensure they receive appropriate emergency care.

Lee Jaesoon, Chief of the Ulsan Fire Department, said, "When a heat-related illness is reported, we will focus on preventing casualties by providing initial emergency care instructions and operating a preliminary response team for heatwaves."