MANKATO, MN — The death of Minnesota Vikings star player Korey Stringer is a tragic story of the dangers of heat stroke and heat-related illnesses. Stringer died of complications from heat stroke after becoming ill during a team practice on Wednesday, August 1.

The Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors — National Association (PHCC) is reminding its workers to be “on the alert” for warning signs of heat problems while on the job. The PHCC issued a statement saying, “If you suspect a worker is experiencing heat-related health problems, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) advises that prompt treatment is necessary, including dialing 911 and removing the victim to a cool area while awaiting medical help.

“The victim’s clothing should be soaked with cool water and he or she should be fanned vigorously to increase cooling.” For more information, see the OSHA fact sheet at http://www.osha-slc.gov/OshDoc/Fact_data/FSNO95-16.html.