Naples police, camp staff watch for heat dangers at Baker Park

NAPLES, Fla. (WINK)—Extreme heat can change someone's condition before they even realize they're in trouble.

That is why the warning signs matter, especially for kids, older adults, people outside alone, or anyone spending too much time in the sun. 

The heat changes how people use Baker Park, where they walk, where they sit, and how long they stay outside. Naples police say that is why officers are watching these public spaces for people who may not realize the heat is already catching up to them.

Samantha Pascual says staying cool means sticking to the plan.

"Make sure the students have their water bottle, making sure they're taking breaks, especially under the shade areas," Pascual said.

Pascual and her staff are responsible for 100 students. In this heat, that means watching more than just kids playing around.

"It's very important just to kind of stay on top and just do your best to observe each and every single kid that's in our care," Pascual said.

Even before the dog days of summer, the sprinklers can cool you off, but Pascual encourages water bottles the most.

"They ask for a lot of water too, so it's very encouraged with our students to bring water bottles," Pascual said.

At Naples Police headquarters, Lt. Bryan McGinn says that during the summer months, officers patrol popular areas to look for anyone who may be suffering from heat stress.

"Our beach patrol officers are on the beach patrolling, and they're taking a look out for signs and symptoms of things that might not be right," McGinn said.

That helps Pascual feel just a bit safer with her students.

"This year I feel like the heat is more extreme than it was last year," Pascual said. "So it's a good feeling to know that there's help wherever there might be."

Police say that if someone outside looks confused, weak, or not like themselves in this heat, and you feel comfortable doing so, it's worth checking on them or calling for help.