Oxford Rescue Department Chief Scott Hunter is taking no chances when it comes to the extreme heat – especially when thousands of fans are in town for the TD Banknorth 250 at Oxford Plains Speedway this Sunday.
Hunter has ordered additional staff on standby, an extra ambulance, a state-of-the-art communications truck and mass casualties incidents vehicle, which can treat up to 200 people for heat sickness.
“There will be water stations in the grandstand,” said Hunter, adding that Poland Spring donated a pallet of water for the event.
“I have extra staff if I need to call in,” Hunter said. “I can just add the staff as I need.”
Hunter said Stephens Memorial Hospital also has put on additional staff.
OPS maintenance director Jim Vadeboncoeur says patrons are in good hands with Oxford Rescue on duty this weekend.
“The rescue will deal with heat stroke or anything like that,” he added.
But Hunter believes prevention is the best way to beat the heat.
“Keep hydrated and stay in the shade as much as you can, because it is going to be warm,” he said.
But some spectators like Allan Hynes don’t mind the hot and humid climate.
“All I do is remember January and February,” he said. “We got water dumping over our heads.”
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