Record High of 323 Dispatches and 292 Transports Last Year
High Proportion of Elderly Patients... Heat Wave Response Equipment Deployed in Ambulances
Public Awareness Campaigns on Heat Wave Safety Guidelines to Be Strengthened
Over the past five years, more than 600 heat-related illness cases have been reported in the Jeonnam region. Photo shows the rescue scene of a heat-related illness patient. Provided by Jeonnam Province.
It has been found that over the past five years, the number of patients affected by heat waves in the Jeonnam region has exceeded 600. The Jeonnam Fire Headquarters announced that, as heat waves caused by climate change are expanding to disaster levels, it will operate a heat-related illness response system until September.
According to the Jeonnam Fire Headquarters on June 8, heat-related illness is an acute condition caused by exposure to heat. Symptoms such as headache, dizziness, and impaired consciousness can occur after prolonged exposure to hot environments, and if left untreated, these conditions can be life-threatening.
In fact, over the past five years (2020-2024), there were a total of 667 emergency dispatches related to heat waves in the Jeonnam region, with 610 patients transported. In particular, last year saw a record high with 323 dispatches and 292 patients transported.
Emergency dispatches for heat-related illnesses typically begin in June, with 85% concentrated in July and August. The main symptoms are heat exhaustion and heat stroke. By age group, the proportion of patients aged 60 and older was high, and men accounted for 62% of cases compared to 38% for women.
In response, the Jeonnam Fire Headquarters plans to equip 193 vehicles (139 ambulances and 54 pumpbulances) with nine types of heat wave response equipment, including ice vests, ice packs, and saline glucose, in order to quickly stabilize patients' conditions during on-site dispatches.
Additionally, 54 fire trucks designated as pumpbulances will be operated as reserve units to minimize gaps in emergency response caused by ambulance dispatches, and patrol activities during vulnerable hours will be strengthened.
To provide guidance on initial emergency measures before ambulances arrive at the scene, an Emergency Situation Management Center will be operated within the 119 General Situation Room. Public awareness campaigns on heat wave safety guidelines will also be expanded during the summer.
To prevent heat-related illnesses, it is important to check the temperature before going out and to refrain from outdoor activities during heat waves. Individuals should strictly follow health guidelines for heat waves, such as blocking direct sunlight, taking sufficient rest, and staying hydrated.
Children, the elderly, and those with chronic illnesses who are vulnerable to heat-related illnesses require special attention from caregivers. Extra caution should be taken not to leave children or the elderly alone in enclosed spaces such as cars with closed windows.
Choi Yongcheol, head of the Jeonnam Fire Headquarters, said, "We will continue to do our best to ensure a healthy summer for residents by providing training for paramedics, expanding equipment, and establishing cooperative systems with related organizations."
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