A hot Friday afternoon turned tense at KIPP Atlanta Collegiate, 98 Anderson Ave. NW, when several children needed medical attention for heat-related problems, according to Atlanta Fire Rescue. Firefighters and EMS evaluated multiple pediatric patients on the school grounds: one child was treated for heat exhaustion, another for a nosebleed and a third for an altered level of consciousness. Crews later cleared the scene. The scare unfolded as steamy weather pushed metro Atlanta temperatures into the low 90s.
Atlanta Fire Rescue told CBS News Atlanta that firefighters and EMS were sent to the 98 block of Anderson Avenue after reports of "multiple heat-related medical emergencies." Medics treated and evaluated patients on site, and the area was later reopened, the outlet reported.
KIPP Atlanta Collegiate is listed at 98 Anderson Ave. NW, and local TV coverage noted that additional EMS units were brought in as backup. Atlanta News First reported that it was not immediately clear whether the incident happened during a school-sponsored activity or an outside program using the campus.
Hot, Humid Conditions In The City
The National Weather Service office in Atlanta forecast highs in the low 90s with heat index readings in the mid to upper 90s, a sticky setup that raises the odds of heat-related illness. Local observations around the time showed temperatures near 91°F and heat index values in the mid 90s, according to the NWS Atlanta office.
Recognizing Heat Illness And When To Call 911
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that heat exhaustion can trigger heavy sweating, dizziness, nausea and weakness. Heat stroke, a life-threatening emergency, can involve confusion, seizures or loss of consciousness. If someone has signs of heat stroke or any altered mental state, NIOSH and CDC guidance is to call 911 right away.
Officials reminded parents, coaches and camp organizers to keep a close eye on kids in the heat, make sure water is always available and move anyone who appears in distress into a cooler spot while seeking medical help if symptoms do not improve, CBS News Atlanta reported. With warm conditions expected to stick around through the weekend, city agencies urged extra caution for all outdoor programs.
