As of this writing, Parker and La Paz County are under another excessive heat warning. Most of us will stay indoors. If we have to work outside, it will be in the early morning hours. For first responders, however, this isn’t always possible.
Accidents will happen and fires will start no matter what the outside temperature is. First responders, like firefighters and police officers, need to be ready to go into action in extreme heat, just like they must be ready in stormy weather. People need their services right away, and they can’t wait.
The Pioneer spoke with several local first responder agencies and asked them how they deal with the heat. It’s particularly difficult for firefighters, with the heavy suits and equipment they need to wear. Buckskin Fire Chief Troy Maloney and Quartzsite Fire Chief Kevin Hess said there are two keys to dealing with the heat: keeping hydrated and staying in good physical shape.