LAS VEGAS (FOX5) — For Las Vegas street vendors, summer is the busiest time of year. But before the crowds arrive, many spend hours working through triple-digit temperatures with no option to step inside.
Bertin Gonzalez, a licensed street vendor in Las Vegas, said the heat has already affected his stand, Antojitos El Pueblito.
“Just as we sell a little more, this season also affects us a lot because it’s too hot,” Gonzalez said. “It’s very risky because sometimes the heat can cause a lot of things to happen to us.”
Dehydration and heat stroke on the job
Gonzalez said he and others at his stand have already experienced the effects of working in the heat this season.
“Just recently we went through a few days where we got dehydrated — there are heat strokes, and it’s very tough during this time too, because the heat is intense,” Gonzalez said. “We can’t handle it the same way as our customers who come to buy from us.”
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Health district urges precautions for outdoor workers
Epidemiologist Alexis Bringola said there are steps outdoor workers can take to reduce heat risks.
“There’s different ways they can keep themselves cooled down, stay hydrated — certain types of clothes, so long sleeves, hats, sunscreen,” Bringola said.
Bringola said drinking plenty of water and taking breaks from the sun are vital for anyone who must work outside.
“But now, of course, if you have to work outside, there’s no other option. You’re doing everything you can — you’re trying to mitigate the risk as much as possible,” Bringola said.
‘We just have to keep moving forward’
Despite the conditions, Gonzalez said shutting down his stand is not an option.
“It’s our duty, and this is how we support our family, so we just have to keep moving forward,” Gonzalez said.
The Southern Nevada Health District reminds the public that if someone shows signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke, call 9-1-1 immediately.
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