An oppressive heat wave has its gripe on the United States. Over the next three days more than 200 million people will experience temperatures over 90 degrees.
Heat advisories and excessive heat warnings are in place all around the country. The record temperatures pose a threat to many people, especially those who work outside.
A Ring doorbell camera in Scottsdale, Arizona captured the severe effects the heat can have on a person if they’re not careful.
Brian Enriquez was at work and couldn’t get to his phone right away when he received a notification from his doorbell camera. It’s something he now regrets.
The camera alerted him there was someone at his door delivering a package. When he watched the video, Enriquez noticed the UPS driver was unsteady as he approached his home, then seconds later he collapsed.
“I was concerned for the fact that he was coming, stumbling to the door,” he said.
“Had I gotten to my phone sooner, I could have talked to him through my Ring [doorbell] but he had already left the property at that point.”
Just as the driver set down the package, he crumpled to the ground. He remained in a seated position for a moment before falling on his back.
The driver then slowly got back on his feet, rang the doorbell, and stumbled back to the street.
Immediately after watching the video, Enriquez contacted Scottsdale Police and requested a welfare check. He also attempted to contact UPS to let them know one of their drivers was not well.
UPS released a statement indicating the employee is “fine.”
“UPS drivers are trained to work outdoors and for the effects of hot weather. Our employee used his training to be aware of his situation and contact his manager for assistance, who immediately provided assistance. We never want our employees to continue working to the point that they risk their health or work in an unsafe manner.”
Although UPS assured those concerned for the driver’s safety, Enriquez hopes his video will make companies consider different working conditions for their employees, especially during the hot summer months.
“I just want to make sure those guys are safe, you know, and with this heat, those guys don’t have AC in those trucks,” Enriquez said. “His safety is my concern.”
While we experience these extremely hot temperatures, it’s important to watch out for signs of heat related illnesses.
Please take care of yourself during this intense heat wave, and please share this story on Facebook to spread awareness.
