Phoenix Fire Department New Heat Illness Treatment Tool
Photo Courtesy of Phoenix Fire Department
This summer, the Phoenix Fire Department has introduced a new and innovative approach to treating heat victims: Cold Water Immersion. These specialized ice bags are being used to rapidly cool down individuals suffering from extreme heat-related illnesses, offering a quick and effective method to manage the often-dangerous effects of extreme heat.
The cold-water immersion is used when a patient’s temperature surpasses 104 degrees, and they present with altered mental status. Once the patient is fully immersed in the ice, firefighter-paramedics constantly reevaluate vital signs including their temperature. The patient is removed from the bag when their temperature drops to 101 degrees.
Since May, every response vehicle within the Phoenix Fire Department has been outfitted with the equipment and necessary tools to integrate this method into standard protocol for dealing with heat-related emergencies. Training for the proper application and monitoring of this method has been provided to ensure effectiveness and safety to all 1,800 Phoenix Firefighters.
At the beginning of May, one bag a week was used on average. Nearing the end of June, the bags are used roughly three times a day.
“This is a collaborative effort,” Captain Rob McDade says. “We’ve worked with local E.R.s, local doctors, our own medical director, our EMS department – we looked at how can we help those that we serve having critical heat emergencies?”
As the excessive heat becomes more frequent and intense, this simple yet effective measure plays a crucial role in saving lives and enhancing emergency response capabilities.
And the impact has already been seen.
Battalion Chief Austin Moreland works within the Emergency Medical Services section and helped deploy this new program and training. He says, “We’ve already seen people who were extremely hot this year, who last year they might not have made it – and because of these efforts this year, they’re leaving the hospital with no deficits.”
Black Mountain Precinct Hosts Blood Drive on July 9
The Black Mountain Police Precinct invites the community to participate in their upcoming blood drive on Tuesday, July 9. The event will take place from 8 a.m. to noon at Shiloh Community Church, located at 19021 N. 32nd St., in Phoenix.
This official city blood drive is a vital opportunity for residents to support those in need of blood donations. The event is organized to help meet the ongoing demand for blood, which can save lives in emergency situations and for those undergoing medical treatments.
To register for an appointment, visit the blood drive registration at donors.vitalant.org/dwp/portal/dwa, select the Blood Drive Code checkbox above the submit button, and enter the code: PPDBMP.
Join the officers of the Black Mountain Police Precinct and make a life-saving contribution. Your donation can make a significant difference in the lives of many. Don’t miss this chance to give back to your community and help those in need.
Master Tiki Cocktails at Pigtails Cocktails in Desert Ridge
On Saturday, July 20, Pigtails at Desert Ridge Marketplace is hosting a Tiki Cocktails Class from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Led by Beverage Director Kyla Hein, this engaging class offers participants a chance to delve into the art of tiki cocktails, learning to mix and create three distinctive drinks.
During the session, a brunch buffet is served, and attendees will focus on the unique ingredients and techniques required to craft tropical beverages, perfect for recreating the flavors of summer at home. Set in the cozy atmosphere of the Pigtails speakeasy, this event offers educational insights into cocktail crafting. For more information, visit pigtailscocktails.com.
