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Fire Departments Geared Up for the 4th

Posted: 3:50 PM Jul 4, 2012
Reporter: Brian Johnson

The extreme heat, fireworks and people outdoors have fire departments across mid-Michigan on high alert for fires and heat stroke.

"We've already taken care of a few people coming off the street from the parades," said Eric Weber, a public information officer in the Lansing Fire Department.

To combat the heat, Lansing firefighters are stocked with extra supplies, just in case. Last year an accident downtown left a person injured and the department hopes to avoid that this year.

"Our medic units have extra ice packs on board, extra towels, they are prepared to hydrate people," said Weber.

To reduce the risk of fires, officials are encouraging people to visit city sponsored firework shows rather than use their own fireworks. The morning brought a normal number of calls to the department, but firefighters expect things to pick up tonight as more people head out. This year conditions are ripe to start fires or induce heat stroke.

"You know with heat stroke, death could obviously happen and that's something that we do not want to happen, so it's very important that you do stay directly out of the sun," said Zach Parsons, a Firefighter/EMT for the Lansing Fire Department. "If you are going to be outside, just try and take precautions."

Unlike many, the firefighters do not have today off. Instead they'll celebrate Independence Day by serving.

"Whether it's a holiday or just a regular day it doesn't bother us to come into work and you know, help the citizens if they should call upon us," said Parsons.

They'll be ready in case someone needs help.