Heat illness believed to be related to 2 Cheatham County deaths

CHEATHAM COUNTY, Tenn. (WKRN) — At least two people in Cheatham County are believed to have died due to heat exhaustion in a two-day period. 

A student at Sycamore High School was one of the reported deaths. According to the school, the student – who has not been identified – was a cross-country runner. 

Meanwhile, a farmer working in a tobacco farm was the other reported death. Cheatham County first responders are awaiting the autopsy reports in both cases.

A spokesperson at Ascension St. Thomas Hospital system said they have seen a rise in heat-related illnesses. 

“You do develop some tolerance through the summer, but it still can be a concern,” said Director of Ascension St. Thomas Emergency Medical Services Mike Carlton. “Even if it’s late in the year and you worked outside every day, it’s important to pay attention to what your body is telling you.”

Carlton represents Ascension St. Thomas with Tennessee Titans training camp. He and his team work to keep players hydrated and healthy during practice. During his tenure, he has seen countless athletes battle the heat and how coaches worked to keep them safe.

During an emergency situation, Carlton advises you to take someone suffering from heat illness to a cool area and immediately give them plenty of fluids. Water and drinks with electrolytes are the best beverages to help with heat exhaustion. If the person is in dire need, immediately seek medical attention.

To learn more about heat exhaustion and other heat related illnesses, click here.