The month of June had a lot of weather changes.  We experienced drought conditions, cold nights, and really warm days.

During this month, the ambulance squad responded to 44 calls with 21 transports to the hospital. There were seven stand-by calls for the Albany County Sheriff’s Department, and one trauma call. The majority of the calls were in the town of Berne, and there was a mutual-aid call with medevac.

Thank you, George Gebe and Stephanie Carpenter, for participating in the Berne-Knox-Westerlo parade for the graduating seniors. Congratulations to all.

As emergency medical technicians, it is important to maintain our skills and many of us have been taking classes sponsored by the Department of Health. These classes are held on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday evenings.

We have also learned to use Zoom for our monthly meetings.

We welcome two new members: Asja  Afali and Stephanie Valdez. Stephanie is currently taking the EMT class and will finish up in August.

Heat-wave advice

What can I do in a heat wave?

— Use air-conditioning;

— Open windows and shades on the shady side of the house and close them on the sunny side to try to keep the house cool;

— Take cool showers or baths;

— Take regular breaks from physical activity. Do most of your work in the mornings before the temperatures rise;

— Avoid strenuous activity between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.;

— Stay out of the sun;

— Wear loose, lightweight clothing;

— Never leave children or pets in a parked car; and

— Drink plenty of fluids, but avoid alcohol, caffeine, and sugary drinks.

Thank you

We would like to extend a big thank-you to the Helderberg Kiwanis for purchasing new thermometers for the rigs and the first-in bags.

Blood drive

On July 14, there will be an American Red Cross Blood Drive at the station located at 978 Cole Hill Road. The blood drive will be from 1 to 6 p.m. If you are able to donate, please call 1-800-RED CROSS to schedule an appointment. Remember, every two seconds someone in the United States needs blood.

Stay safe, wear your mask, and remember to social distance in public.