Heat-related emergency calls lower than same time last year; LDH releases heat-illness prevention program [Video]

BATON ROUGE – Monday and Tuesday were under a heat advisory, with the index reaching as high as 111 degrees.

But this summer is not nearly as hot as last year. This time last year, East Baton Rouge EMS responded to 45 heat-related calls. This year there have only been 21 calls.

There are tell-tale signs if someone you or someone you know is suffering from heat exhaustion or heat stroke.

Heat exhaustion comes before a stroke and has symptoms such as heavy sweating, cold and pale skin, nausea, and muscle cramps.

A heat stroke is the opposite with no sweating, fainting, confusion, and a body temperature of up to 104 degrees.

If someone is suffering from a stroke you are advised to call 911 immediately.

Arien Morgan with EBR EMS says hydration is key to preventing yourself from becoming a victim of a heat-related incident.

“Pre-hydrating you know. The …