Jeju Fire Department Strengthens Emergency Response System to Prepare for Heat-Related Illness Cases

Published 02 Aug.2023 11:00(KST)

The Jeju Fire Safety Headquarters (Chief Kim Su-hwan) announced on the 2nd that it will strengthen its emergency response system as heat-related illnesses have been occurring continuously due to the ongoing heatwave.

On the 1st, a total of six suspected heat-related illness reports were received at the 119 situation room, and the 119 emergency medical team provided first aid.

Jeju Fire Headquarters is strengthening its emergency response system as heat-related illnesses continue to occur due to the ongoing heatwave.
[Photo by Jeju Fire]

Over the past three years, there have been 224 heat-related illness cases in the province, occurring steadily each year. In July of this year alone, 30 heat-related illness cases were reported, with 119 emergency activities related to the heatwave including 18 patient transports and treatments, and 9 medical consultations.

The Jeju Fire Safety Headquarters plans to establish a dispatch readiness system for the 119 emergency medical teams in preparation for heat-related illness occurrences and significantly strengthen medical support for residents related to the heatwave at the 119 comprehensive situation room’s emergency medical management center.

Heatwave-related emergency medical equipment is kept on standby in all 32 ambulances in the province, and in cases of severe heat-related illness, multiple dispatches will be made. Emergency medical personnel who have received special training on the clinical characteristics and emergency treatment methods of heat-related illnesses will assist in the recovery of patients.

Additionally, the 119 comprehensive situation room’s emergency medical management center will enhance medical support for residents by providing heatwave-related medical consultations and first aid guidance, and will promptly transport patients by managing real-time status of hospitals capable of treating heat-related illnesses.

Furthermore, patrols will be conducted to prevent heatwave damage when special weather warnings are issued, and the promotion of heat-related illness prevention guidelines will be intensified.

Chief Kim Su-hwan stated, “As the unprecedented heatwave continues day after day, we will respond to the occurrence of heat-related illnesses with strengthened measures,” and added, “If you experience headaches, convulsions, or loss of consciousness after exposure to extreme heat, please report immediately to 119.”