‘Planning for the worst’: First responders on high alert ahead of hot Husker game

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – It’s not just fans getting fired up for Saturday’s Husker football game. The weather is, too.

Temperatures are forecast to climb into the mid-90s.

Capt. John Backer with the University Nebraska-Lincoln Police Department said he’s worried that fans won’t be prepared for the heat.

UNLPD is taking extra precautions at Memorial Stadium.

“Planning for the worst and hoping for the best,” Backer said. “We are bringing in extra folks for this game. We’re asking more to come in for Red Cross volunteers through our medical providers, and then we will position them inside the stadium.”

Backer also said cooling stations will be set up throughout the stadium.

He said most heat-related calls usually happen early on in the game.

“Sometimes the walk to the stadium can affect folks,” Backer said. “And the heat, humidity and wind is much different outside the stadium than it is inside.”

First responders will be walking around in the stadium to keep an eye out for fans who are showing signs of heat-related illness.

But Backer said everyone should help.

“They know what to look for, but in a crowd that size, it would be difficult to pick out someone who may be in more distress than others,” he said.

If you notice someone sweating a lot or getting confused, Backer said you shouldn’t hesitate to get the attention of an officer or first responder.

“I can’t push this message enough of just getting help sooner than later,” he said.

If you’re in the stadium and need assistance, you can text UNLPD at 402-482-0800.