First responders brace for busy holiday weekend

First responders are bracing for a busy holiday weekend across Minnesota.

"The more active people are, the more calls we tend to get," said Jeffrey Lanenberg, of Allina Health EMS.

Lanenberg said dehydration, heat exhaustion and heat stroke are big concerns due to temperatures in the 90s and high humidity.

"Especially if you’re at rest and your heart rate’s up, that’s a clear indication that you’re probably dehydrated," Lanenberg said.

KSTP’s Fourth of July event page

He advised people to drink water regularly, eat nutrient-dense food and take breaks in the shade.

5 EYEWITNESS NEWS Meteorologist Jonathan Yuhas said the streak of intense heat will continue for several more days.

"When we look back on last year, to date, we had one day above 90 degrees," Yuhas said, "while this year, we’ve had five days so far and we’re forecasting another six to seven in the next week, so we’ll be adding them up quickly."

Yuhas said it is important to pay attention to how your pets are handling the heat as well.

"When they’re out in this heat, it’s really rough on them," Yuhas said. "The grass will be about 90 degrees and the pavement gets as warm as 135 degrees."