At least 10 people were hospitalized and 100 others were treated for heat-related illness at a sold-out airshow in Colorado on Saturday, according to officials.
With 30,000 people expected to attend, the two-day Pikes Peak Air Show kicked off at the Colorado Springs Airport, about 90 miles outside of Denver.
A few hours after the event began, the Colorado Springs Fire Department said it was “actively responding” to a mass casualty incident.
At least 100 people were treated by emergency personnel onsite and 10 were transported to local hospitals, CSFD said in a statement.
An update on the patients was not given Saturday evening.
“We can call a mass casualty incident when we have something like this where we have multiple heat-related illnesses. That allows us to order more resources,” CSFD Public Information Officer Ashley Franco told ABC affiliate, KRDO.
Temperatures reached a high of 96 degrees in the area, with little to no clouds in the sky, according to the National Weather Service.
“The Colorado Springs Fire Department works and prepares very closely with the airport and event organizers when large events are held. Today, like every day, we had a plan in place in the event we needed to activate it,” said CSFD Chief Randy Royal.
The Pikes Peak Air Show is scheduled to continue on Sunday, with a heat advisory remaining in effect and a high of 93 degrees. CSFD advised attendees to come prepared, “With water bottles, hats, sunscreen, umbrellas and other essentials to combat the heat.”
ABC News’ Erica B. Morris contributed to this report.
Officials at the recent Colorado air show have reported that a total of 100 attendees were treated for heat-related illnesses, with 10 individuals requiring hospitalization. The incident has raised concerns about the importance of staying safe and hydrated during outdoor events, especially in hot and sunny conditions.
The air show, which took place on a scorching summer day, drew large crowds of spectators eager to witness the thrilling aerial displays and aircraft demonstrations. However, the extreme heat proved to be a significant challenge for many attendees, leading to a high number of heat-related illnesses.
According to reports from emergency medical personnel on site, individuals were experiencing symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, dehydration, and heat exhaustion. In some cases, the severity of the symptoms required immediate medical attention and hospitalization.
In response to the situation, event organizers and medical staff worked diligently to provide assistance to those in need. Cooling stations were set up throughout the venue, offering shade, water, and medical attention to individuals showing signs of distress. Additionally, announcements were made reminding attendees to stay hydrated, seek shade, and take breaks from the sun.
The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of taking precautions when attending outdoor events in hot weather. It is crucial for attendees to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, wear lightweight and breathable clothing, apply sunscreen regularly, and seek shade whenever possible. It is also recommended to avoid excessive alcohol consumption and to be mindful of any preexisting health conditions that may be exacerbated by high temperatures.
Furthermore, event organizers should consider implementing additional measures to ensure the safety and well-being of attendees, such as providing ample access to water, shade, and medical assistance. Proper planning and communication can help prevent heat-related illnesses and emergencies from occurring during outdoor events.
As we continue to enjoy outdoor activities and events during the summer months, it is essential to prioritize safety and take proactive steps to prevent heat-related illnesses. By staying informed, prepared, and vigilant, we can all enjoy a fun and safe experience at outdoor gatherings like air shows.
