LOUISVILLE, KY (WAVE) - Expect a hot time at Churchill Downs on both Oaks Day and Derby Day.
Carmen and Gex Williams said they're prepared for the heat. "Wear breathable clothes, sunscreen," said Carmen.
"Always be looking for that shade," said Gex.
Their fashion might follow the sun in terms of what might be worn.
"I can't say that I'm perfect for the weather, but I will be thinking about the fabric and making sure to try and dress light even though I'll be wearing a jacket," said Gex.
Louisville Metro Emergency Services will have a total of 24 crews in cooperation with Yellow Ambulance.
"We're expecting (to be) busier than normal, and we are making plans that we can take care of all those patients without any issues," said Major Mike Crenshaw with LMES.
A special bus, fully stocked and able to care for at least 20 people at a time, will be at all Derby events.
"On the inside, you'll have first-aid stations," said Crenshaw. "They have multiple of those inside the Downs themselves. We're going to have our command post in the infield. You can't miss it. Our big bus will be there."
At the backside stables, crews are working to keep the horses safe in the heat.
"Water primarily," said Whit Beckman, an assistant trainer for Todd Pletcher."They have free access to water buckets all day long and just like humans, when they're thirsty, they drink. When they're not, they don't. We also equip all of their stalls with fans."
Beckman takes care of 18 horses, many of which are running in the Oaks and Derby.
"People need to understand that we give them more care and attention than most athletes in any other sport."
Copyright 2012 WAVE News. All rights reserved.
The famous twin spires at Churchill Downs.
The sun beat down on the track on Thursday, and more heat is expected on Oaks Day and Derby Day.
The horses at Churchill Downs are protected from the heat.
Emergency vehicles will be at the Downs on Friday and Saturday to help people battling the heat.
FOX19-WXIX
