COLORADO SPRINGS, Colorado – Dozens of people attending the Tacos and Tequilas Festival in Colorado Springs were treated for heat-related illnesses on Saturday after high temperatures affected attendees at the outdoor event.
The Colorado Springs Fire Department initially reported that approximately 35 people had been treated, with 10 transported to area hospitals. Officials later clarified the incident following additional information gathering. According to the updated information, 72 total patients were treated, with seven transported to local hospitals after experiencing serious symptoms associated with dehydration and or intoxication. The remaining patients were treated at the festival and released from the scene.
The Colorado Springs Fire Department and American Medical Response responded after multiple festival attendees began experiencing medical problems at UCHealth Park on Tutt Boulevard.
Heat Illness Prompts Emergency Response
The number of patients prompted officials to request additional fire department units and AMR ambulances at the festival. The event was scheduled to continue through Sunday, with medical personnel remaining on site for the duration of the festival. The incident occurred as the National Weather Service issued a Heat Advisory for the Colorado Springs area.
The first advisory was in effect through 8pm Saturday, while another Heat Advisory was issued for Sunday from noon until 8pm Outdoor festivals and other large gatherings can create additional risks during periods of extreme heat, particularly when attendees spend several hours outside. Dehydration and alcohol consumption can also contribute to heat-related medical emergencies.
Officials Warn About Heat Stroke
The Colorado Springs Fire Department urged residents and visitors to stay hydrated, take regular breaks from the heat and check on children, older adults and other people who may be more vulnerable to heat-related illness.
Symptoms of heat exhaustion can include excessive sweating, dizziness, thirst, nausea, weakness, muscle cramps and headaches. More severe symptoms can indicate heat stroke. Confusion, slurred speech, nausea, a rapid pulse and loss of consciousness are among the warning signs.
Heat stroke is a medical emergency. Officials recommend calling 911 immediately, moving the affected person to a cooler location and beginning efforts to cool them while waiting for emergency responders.