These 100 degree temperatures are even harder on firefighters who’re also wearing heavy protective gear, and vulnerable to heat stress.  Ellis County Emergency Medical Services has organized a non-profit “Rehab Fund” to raise money for bottled water, neck coolers and other items to keep firefighters cool on the scene.

E-M-S employee Ryan Werth says the need became apparent during the response to last June’s deadly elevator collapse in Russell, when several firefighters succumbed to heat stroke.

A “Rehab Fund” fundraising booth featuring food and raffle tickets will be set up at Saturday’s Riverfest in Ellis.