Calls EMS See Every Summer… and How to Avoid Them!

This article is provided by Becca Huebsch, Perham Area EMS Director. Drawing on real-life emergency response experiences, Huebsch and her team share common summer incidents they see year after year – along with simple, practical steps you can take to keep yourself, your family, and your community safe.

Summer in lakes country is something we all look forward to – long days, time on the water, backyard grills, and fireworks at dusk. For EMS, it’s also one of the busiest times of year. While every call is different, we see the same preventable situations again and again. Here are some of the most common calls we respond to – and how you can avoid them.

A Fun Night Turns Into a Burn Call

It usually starts with good intentions. A group gathers to watch fireworks, someone lights one that doesn’t go off right away, and they walk closer to check it. A moment later, it ignites unexpectedly. We’ve treated burns to hands, faces, and eyes. Clothing can catch fire. Fireworks can tip over and launch in the wrong direction. In some cases, the injuries require transfer to a burn center.

How to avoid it:

• Never approach a firework that did not go off. Wait at least 20 minutes, then soak it thoroughly with water before disposing.
• Light one firework at a time and move away quickly.
• Keep spectators and children well back and establish a clear “launch zone” that stays clear of people.
• Do not hold fireworks in your hand or try to relight a malfunctioning one.
• Keep a bucket of water, hose, or fire extinguisher nearby.
• Make sure fireworks are set on a flat, stable surface so they do not tip over.
• Avoid using fireworks near dry grass, buildings, or anything that could catch fire.
• Consider attending a public fireworks display instead of lighting your own.

A Day on the Lake Changes Quickly

A calm lake can give a false sense of security. We’ve responded to calls where someone fell out of a boat without a life jacket, or where a swimmer underestimated distance, fatigue, or changing conditions. Alcohol is often a factor, slowing reaction time and judgment.

Drownings do not always look the way people expect. They are often quick and quiet, without splashing or yelling. We see incidents involving both children and adults every summer. Kids can slip under the water in seconds, even with adults nearby. Even shallow water, ponds, streams, or culverts can be dangerous for small children. Adults, even strong swimmers, can get into trouble due to exhaustion, medical issues, or alcohol.

In some cases, what started as a fun afternoon becomes a life or death situation.

How to avoid it:

• Wear a life jacket. Not just have one on the boat. Wear it, especially for children and weaker swimmers.
• Actively supervise children around water. Avoid distractions like phones or conversations when kids are swimming.
• Swim with a buddy and avoid swimming alone, even if you are experienced.
• Be mindful of alcohol use around water. It significantly increases the risk of drowning.
• Know your limits. Fatigue can set in faster than expected, especially in open water.
• Be aware of water temperature. Even in summer, cold water can impact breathing and muscle function.
• Make sure someone in your group knows basic water rescue and CPR.

Heat, Dehydration, and Medical Emergencies

Hot days, busy gatherings, and long hours outside can take a serious toll on the body. We see patients every summer with dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. It often sneaks up on people who are focused on hosting, working, or enjoying time outside.

Heat stroke is a medical emergency. It can cause confusion, loss of consciousness, and organ damage if not treated quickly. Dehydration and heat exhaustion can progress to something more serious if not recognized early. Children, older adults, and those with underlying health conditions are especially at risk, but we see it across all age groups.

How to avoid it:

• Drink water regularly throughout the day. Do not wait until you feel thirsty.
• Limit alcohol and caffeine, which can contribute to dehydration.
• Take breaks in the shade or air conditioning, especially during the hottest part of the day.
• Wear light, breathable clothing.
• Watch for early signs of heat illness such as dizziness, nausea, headache, heavy sweating, or unusual fatigue.
• Check in on others, especially kids and older adults, who may not recognize symptoms themselves.
• If someone becomes confused, stops sweating, or loses consciousness, call for help immediately and begin cooling measures.

Enjoy the Summer, Safely

We want you to enjoy everything that makes this time of year special. Our goal is not to take away the fun, but to make sure you and your family are still able to enjoy it tomorrow.

Because the truth is, many of the calls we see every summer do not have to happen.

A little awareness goes a long way.