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‘Cool down’: MEDIC prepares for weekend in Queen City with high temperatures

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CHARLOTTE — The Queen City is a host of lots of shows, games, and activities. And many of them are outdoors.

But this weekend, the Charlotte area is facing a stretch of 100-degree days. And MEDIC is preparing for an increase in heat-related calls, said MEDIC Operation Supervisor John Stroup.

During the week, Stroup said MEDIC transported 19 patients with heat-related illnesses.

Stroup told Channel 9’s Almiya White that the calls can range from someone working in their yard to people jogging or attending events.

And he said MEDIC will be on alert for the weekend’s Charlotte FC fame in Uptown and the 24 Hours of Booty Fundraiser in Myers Park.

If you are able to stay inside, Stroup says you should. If you do go outside, he said to bring water and look out for warning signs.

“If you feel yourself getting lightheaded, dizzy, weak — it’s probably time to stop and sit down. Sit down, cool down, and drink water," he said.

Duke Energy also offered tips to help residents keep their homes cool during the current heat wave without increasing their energy bills.

Logan Stewart, spokesperson for Duke Energy, suggests that residents can manage indoor temperatures by keeping blinds or curtains closed on the sunny side of the house and running ceiling fans counterclockwise to circulate cooler air.

“Energy efficiency really is kind of the thing that customers should be aware of,” said Logan Stewart, spokesperson for Duke Energy. “If you have blinds or curtains on the sunny side of that house, try to keep those closed.”

Despite the extreme heat wave, Duke Energy is not asking customers to conserve energy. Stewart assured that Duke Energy is prepared and has the necessary power generation to meet demand.

“Duke Energy is prepared. We have the generation needed. I know some people worry about the grid, so we are fine there,” Stewart explained.

Residents can take simple steps to improve energy efficiency and comfort in their homes during the heat wave, while Duke Energy ensures a stable power supply.

Bank of America Stadium recommends that fans wear light colored clothes and wear a hat.

They reminded fans that they are allowed to bring in two sealed water bottles and sunscreen lotion, not aerosol sunscreen. Handheld fans are permitted, but umbrellas are not.

The stadium encouraged visitors to freeze one water bottle, stay hydrated in advance, take water breaks, and stay in the shade.

To find cooling stations in Mecklenburg County, visit the county website.


FORECAST: Dangerous heat wave to bring triple-digit temperatures through next week

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