Spend time outdoors? This new tech can save your life

HONOLULU (KHON2) — As the temperatures soar and we enjoy the sun and sea, it’s essential to stay safe and avoid heat-related illnesses.

This summer, there’s an exciting new technology that’s making waves in Hawaiʻi: the ColdVest, an emergency heat stroke device. Whether you’re hiking, swimming, or just enjoying the outdoors, the ColdVest could be a lifesaver.

Tracie Wagman, the CEO of ColdVest, sat down with KHON2.com to talk to us all about how this technology works.

Wagman explained, “ColdVest is an emergency heat stroke device that can be deployed by anyone, anywhere, anytime.” This device is especially important for places like Hawaiʻi, where the heat can sometimes be overwhelming.

Hawaiʻi’s beautiful weather attracts visitors and keeps residents active all year round. However, the heat can sometimes be too much, leading to serious health issues like heat stroke. Heat stroke is a dangerous condition where the body’s core temperature rises to 103 degrees Fahrenheit or higher.

“Your organs are almost like burning alive inside you,” Wagman said. “You have 30 minutes to lower core body temperature before it can become fatal or cause permanent organ damage.”

The ColdVest is like a defibrillator for heat stroke. It’s easy to use and doesn’t require any power, ice, or refrigeration.

“When liquid reacts with the ColdVest, it immediately cools. You just lay it on the person, and it starts working right away,” explained Wagman.”

This makes it perfect for lifeguards and Ocean Safety, hotel staff, hikers and anyone spending time outdoors. It is good for any jobs that are primarily outdoors, construction, park rangers, police, landscape architects/landscapers, tour guides and their patrons, firefighters, EMS, etc….

It’s important to recognize the signs of heat stroke so you can act quickly. Wagman highlighted some key symptoms: “Confusion, disorientation, stopping sweating, rashes and collapsing are signs of heat stroke.”

So, if you notice any of these symptoms in yourself or someone else, then it’s crucial to act fast.

The ColdVest is versatile and can be stored almost anywhere. It comes in a vacuum-sealed bag, making it easy to keep in lifeguard stations, hotel concierge desks, cars, and more.

“As long as the vacuum seal hasn’t been opened, the product can be used anytime,” Wagman noted. “This makes it an ideal tool for emergency responders, hotels and anyone spending time outdoors in Hawaiʻi.”

Heat stroke prevention is essential for everyone, from tourists enjoying the beaches to locals hiking the beautiful trails. The Honolulu Fire Department, EMS, and even schools can benefit from having ColdVests on hand.

“No one needs to die from heat stroke; it’s 100% preventable. Acting quickly with the ColdVest can save lives,” emphasized Wagman.

“We try to make this accessible to anyone. You can purchase online and even order in bulk,” said Wagman.

This accessibility means that hotels, outdoor workers, and schools can all be equipped to handle heat emergencies effectively.

As we enjoy the beautiful Hawaiʻi summer, let’s make sure we stay safe and prepared. The ColdVest is a fantastic tool that can help prevent heat stroke and save lives.

Whether you’re a visitor or a resident, understanding the risks of heat-related injuries and having the right tools on hand can make all the difference.

With the ColdVest, staying safe in the heat is easier than ever.

“Be prepared. Heat stroke is a serious condition, but with the right tools, we can prevent it and keep everyone safe,” Wagman reminded us.

So, whether you’re hitting the trails, lounging by the pool, or working outdoors, remember to stay cool and keep a ColdVest handy.

For more information, click here. Stay cool, Hawaiʻi!

Mahalo to Tracie Wagman and her business for sharing this lifesaving technology with us. Let’s all enjoy the sun safely and make this summer the best one yet!