Ron Falk suffered severe injuries and is still recovering a year after collapsing on scorching asphalt in Phoenix during a heatwave. The 62-year-old lost his right leg, had extensive skin grafting on his left leg, and is now wheelchair-bound, residing at a medical respite center. He is receiving physical therapy and treatment for a bacterial infection in his right leg, which is too swollen to use a prosthesis he had hoped for.
Searing heat in Southwest cities like Phoenix, which experienced its hottest June on record, poses dangers of surface burns. Children, older adults, and homeless individuals are particularly vulnerable. Hospitalizations for burns have increased significantly, with Valleywise Health Medical Center in Phoenix treating numerous burn victims, many of whom were homeless.
The desert sun also plagues Las Vegas, where multiple individuals have been hospitalized for burns at the University Medical Center’s Lions Burn Care Center. Victims include children injured on hot surfaces and individuals who collapsed due to heatstroke or other medical issues. Last year’s heatwave led to a high number of heat-related deaths, with thermal injuries being a significant factor.
Valleywise hospital has implemented a new protocol for treating heatstroke victims by submerging them in ice to lower body temperature rapidly. Recovery from severe burns often involves multiple surgeries and lengthy rehabilitation. Victims like Bob Woolley have undergone extensive treatment and therapy at burn centers to recover from second- and third-degree burns.
Young children are also at risk of burns from hot surfaces, with around 20% of patients at the Phoenix burn center being children. Studies have shown that playground equipment can reach dangerously high temperatures without proper shading. Urban areas need to consider alternative surface types to prevent heat-related incidents.
The scorching heat isn’t just dangerous for humans; pets are also at risk of burns from hot concrete and asphalt. Veterinarians advise pet owners to protect their pets’ paws with booties during outdoor walks and ensure they stay hydrated and cool. Falk, still recovering at Phoenix’s Circle the City, emphasizes the importance of understanding the risks of extreme heat and taking precautions to prevent such incidents from happening again.
