Heat drives up emergency callouts in Vorarlberg

Several days of high temperatures are causing more health problems in Vorarlberg, with the Austrian Red Cross reporting more emergency callouts than usual, ORF reported.

The Red Cross in Vorarlberg responds to about 100 emergency calls in a 24-hour period on average. On hot days, that number rises, state rescue commander Gerhard Kräutler told ORF Vorarlberg.

Paramedics are currently seeing more breathing problems, cardiovascular issues and falls linked to circulation problems. “It is really difficult to determine to what extent everything is connected to the heat. But we can see that it is increasingly taking a toll on everyone,” Kräutler said.

The heat is also challenging for the emergency crews themselves. Paramedics must wear long uniform trousers because they are considered protective clothing. Air conditioning in the vehicles and cooled rooms at rescue stations provide some relief.

Additional staff are generally not needed because of the heat, Kräutler said. If extra personnel are required, volunteers can be alerted.