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More operations - more accidents - more attention

The ASB Mannheim/Rhine-Neckar Region is well prepared for the heat wave.

(Mannheim, 18.07.2022)) In the morning at 11:00 a.m. at the rescue station of the ASB Mannheim/Rhine-Neckar Region in Mannheim-Käfertal. All ambulances and emergency vehicles are on the road. It looks similar at the other ASB rescue stations in Mannheim-Sandhofen, Heidelberg-Rohrbach and Hirschberg. "There is a lot going on," Hendrik Maier, head of the rescue service, comments on the current situation. The heat is a strain on many people, and the rescue service is feeling it too. We have significantly more calls," says Hendrik Maier, "and there are also more accidents." Nevertheless, the rescue service is well prepared, "we will be able to optimally care for all people who need help now." Many road users are unfocused and tired, the high temperatures put a strain on the heart and circulation, and drivers in particular are blinded by the sun. In addition, there are emergency medical calls; many people react sensitively to heat with heart and circulation problems, and many are also dehydrated. "Drink plenty of fluids," advises Hendrik Maier, and he keeps telling all employees the same thing. "You can't drink enough fluids in these temperatures," Maier says. Cool, but not ice-cold drinks such as water, teas or diluted juices. Alcoholic, highly sugared or caffeinated beverages should be avoided, as they also dehydrate the body.

Measures against the heat in nursing homes

A recommendation that Jennifer Rudek, home manager of the ASB nursing home "Domizil am Leimbach" in Sandhausen can only endorse. We now constantly check our residents to see whether they are really drinking enough," says Rudek. Older people in particular would take in too little liquid of their own accord anyway. "We have to constantly keep up with that," Jennifer Rudek smiles. At Domizil am Leimbach , there is iced tea and watermelon, fresh light food, and sometimes ice cream in the afternoon. In addition, the rooms are protected from the sun and well ventilated in the morning and evening. Residents are regularly refreshed with cool moist towels, and cool foot baths are also offered regularly. In addition, caregivers make sure everyone is dressed in light, airy clothing and stays out of the sun. Bed linen is also changed; at these temperatures, simple sheets are sufficient.

Well prepared for heat wave

"We have prepared well for the heat wave," says Jennifer Rudek. That applies to all five of the nursing homes at ASB Mannheim/Rhine-Neckar Region as well as to the rescue service. "We can only advise people to postpone strenuous activities until the morning and evening," says Hendrik Maier. If you feel unwell or dizzy, it's best to stay at home, close windows and shutters, and ventilate at night.

"Hang wet towels in the living rooms," recommends the head of the rescue service," this also helps to cool the apartment." Autofahrer:innen should also urgently pay attention to good eye protection, such as sunglasses. "If it can't be avoided at all and someone has to go out in the sun, then by all means wear a head covering and use sunscreen for the skin," adds Hendrik Maier. With caution and calm, the heat days can be overcome well.

The ASB Mannheim/Rhine-Neckar Region employs a total of just under 700 people in its various facilities and services. Of these, around 300 people work in the rescue service. Fek