VIDEO: Atlanta Fire Rescue officials are urging FIFA Fan Festival Atlanta visitors to take precautions after responding to hundreds of heat-related medical emergencies.
Since the Fan Festival opened, Atlanta Fire Rescue has responded to more than 700 medical emergencies, with more than 80% of those incidents being related to heat-related illnesses, according to Fire Chief Roderick Smith.
Smith said many visitors underestimate the impact of Atlanta’s humidity, which can make it more difficult for the body to cool itself.
“Many people come to the Atlanta area and they are prepared for heat, but they are not prepared for the humidity,” Smith said. “The humidity prevents your body from naturally perspiring and warding off the heat.”
To handle the large crowds, Atlanta Fire Rescue has a medical response team inside the Fan Festival.
Fire officials are encouraging fans to stay hydrated before arriving, drink water throughout the day and limit alcohol consumption, which can contribute to dehydration.
Atlanta News First
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