Paramedics from ER24 Cape Town attended to two people that suffered severe heat stroke.
An elderly man, believed to be 68 years old, was found unresponsive in his vehicle along Victoria Road in Plumstead this afternoon.
At approximately 3pm paramedics from ER24 arrived on the scene where they found police officials already in attendance. It is understood that a caller notified the police of an alleged suspicious vehicle standing on the side of the road. She apparently indicated that the vehicle has been standing there for over three hours. When police investigated after receiving the call, they found the man unresponsive inside the vehicle and called ER24.
He was severely dehydrated and showed various signs and symptoms of heat stroke. It is believed that the man’s car broke down and he waited in the car for assistance when the incident occurred.
While paramedics were stabilising him, his vital signs deteriorated and he was placed on life support. He was later rushed to Victoria Hospital for further care.
In another incident on Wednesday, paramedics attended to 23-year-old cricket player that suffered severe heat cramps. ER24 paramedics were called to the scene where they found the young man in tremendous pain.
He was stabilised on scene and later transported to Mediclinic Constantia.
ER24 is urging people to be cautious. Heat exhaustion and heat stroke could lead to serious complications. Severe heat exhaustion could lead to heat stroke for example and this could be life threatening. ER24 offers the following tips:
• Stay well hydrated by drinking a lot of water.
• Keep a close eye on babies, the elderly and children. Ensure they stay well hydrated as well.
• Remember to ensure pets have a cool place to relax and cool clean water to drink as well.
• Try to stay out of direct sunlight.
• Wear the appropriate clothing and ensure you use sunscreen.
• Limit participation in outdoor activities. If you plan on participating in outdoor activities, ensure you rest and keep hydrated.
• If you are going to spend time in a pool, ensure your safety and that of children around you. Ensure that they are supervised while around and in the pool.
• Do not leave children and pets in a vehicle even with a window open.
Severe heat stroke or exhaustion signs or symptoms include the following:
• Severe headache
• Weakness or disorientation
• Nausea or vomiting
• Muscle cramps
• Severe thirst
Monitor people who have these symptoms. Persisting symptoms should be taken seriously and medical assistance should be sought. Contact ER24 on 084 124 for any medical emergency.
Werner Vermaak
Manager: Communications