MU officials prepare for a hot first home football game

University of Missouri officials remind fans attending the first home football game Saturday to be careful, as the first game will be a hot one.

The Abc 17 Stormtrack Team expects the heat index to be in the upper 90s by kickoff time Saturday. So MUPD, medical teams and the university are prepared for any heat-related medical emergencies.

There were more than 100 heat-related medical emergencies last football season, Major Brian Weimer with MUPD said.

Saturday, there will be first aid stations on each side of the stadium. Columbia firefighters, medical teams and an ambulance will also be on standby.

Stephen Potter with the Columbia Fire Department said if you are going to the game, start preparing now.

“Drink plenty of water, clear liquids, Gatorades, and start hydrating right now preparing yourself” Potter said. “Keep the alcohol down to a minimum, but it doesn’t hurt to indulge a little bit.”

You should also stay in shaded areas as much as possible, wear loose fitting, light-colored clothing and eat light meals, Potter said.

But if you start feeling a headache, dizziness, muscle cramps and notice excessive sweating, you may have a heat-related illness.

“Get to shade as quick as you can,” Potter said. “Have somebody assist you. If you don’t have anybody to assist you, get a hold of one of the event staff.”

Fans will only be allowed to bring one sealed water bottle into the game, Weimer said. But there will be six water bottle stations throughout the stadium.

Fans should also be aware of several road closures around Columbia Saturday.

Starting at noon, Old Route K will be closed just south of the bridge on the drive to the MU tennis courts to the entrance of Providence Hill Apartments.

During the fourth quarter, Columbia police will shut down Walnut and Ash Streets on the west and east sides of Providence.

And as in years past, Mick Deaver Drive will be shut down from Stadium to Champions Drive.