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Phoenix firefighters using low-tech approach to battle heatstroke

CBS America · Recent
CBS America
CBS America
Recent

Extreme heat is the deadliest weather-related threat in the U.S. In Phoenix, where heat kills more people than homicides each year, the fire department is creating a model for the country in the battle against heatstroke, by using bags of ice.

Breakdown
  • Phoenix faces increasing heat-related emergencies due to rising temperatures. 18s
  • Firefighters use ice water immersion to cool heatstroke patients quickly. 55s
  • This method is three to five times faster than traditional cooling techniques. 1m 48s
  • Ice bags are now standard equipment at Phoenix fire stations and trailheads. 2m 28s
  • Rapid cooling before hospital arrival is reducing mortality and saving lives. 3m 6s
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