‘We’re always going to respond’: How local firefighters are battling extreme heat

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — In the midst of scorching temperatures exceeding a heat index of 100 degrees , local firefighters are facing significant challenges as they respond to emergency calls across the city.

Unlike most people who can seek shelter indoors during extreme heat, first responders must endure the elements in their heavy fire suits, weighing approximately 45 pounds or more with all of their gear.

Richard Lewis, a Battalion Chief with Richmond Fire, highlighted the daily struggle firefighters face in maintaining their health and effectiveness in such conditions.

“We’re always going to respond; we’re never not going to respond,” Lewis said. “One of the biggest challenges in that is protecting our people because sometimes you don’t know when to stop, you’ll keep pushing past your limit.”

To mitigate the risks associated with prolonged exposure to high temperatures, Richmond firefighters undergo year-round acclimatization efforts. This includes daily outdoor physical activities to condition their bodies for extreme weather situations in a controlled environment.

“We want to get our bodies used to being in that type of situation in a non-stressful environment,” Lewis said.

They can also call in firefighters from other stations to help at a scene and reduce how much effort each firefighter is exerting. The city will also provide buses for them if they need to sit in air conditioning.

However, despite these preparations, the reality of their duties often forces them to confront the heat head-on.

“When firefighters are on a scene, there’s only so much they can do to avoid the heat,” Lewis said. “We just know we have to limit the exposure to the extreme conditions and then we prepare for rehab afterwards.”

This rehabilitation process involves cooling the body, hydrating rigorously and closely monitoring vital signs such as blood pressure and heart rate to ensure each firefighter’s well-being.

In addition to physical preparation, Lewis stressed the importance of dietary choices and hydration leading up to daily shifts, which are usually 24 hours. He cautioned against consuming caffeinated drinks, which can exacerbate the stress on the body in hot conditions.

The department also adjusts its training schedules during heatwaves, restricting outdoor sessions to cooler parts of the day such as early mornings and evenings. This proactive approach helps minimize the risk of heat-related illnesses among firefighters while ensuring they remain prepared for any emergency.

“It often feels hotter than it actually is due to the dew point and relative humidity,” Lewis said. “It’s important to keep a close eye on our firefighters, especially when they’re actively engaged in firefighting operations.”

Despite the challenges posed by relentless heatwaves, Richmond’s firefighters remain committed to their duty, prioritizing public safety above all else. Their resilience and dedication serve as a testament to their role as essential frontline responders, sacrificing personal comfort to protect and serve the community.

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