Extreme heat claims one life, firefighters suffer heat exhaustion

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- Today's heat proved to be too much for two firefighters battling flames at a furniture store in southeast Houston. And we've also learned about the first heat related death in Harris County this year.

The fire broke out just before 4:30pm at the Custom Furniture store on Telephone Road near McHenry. Authorities say two firefighters had to be treated for heat exhaustion at the scene.

"The heat is brutal right now and this was during the heat of the day. I mean the worst part of it so the guys couldn't last long. They worked hard," said District Chief Chris Chavez.

It took fire crews more than an hour to contain the flames. The building did suffer significant damage.

Fire crews say a possible cause is electrical but an investigation is underway to determine the exact cause.

The Harris County Medical Examiner's Office says Jasso Ramirez's death was heat related. He died at St. Joseph's Hospital after a full day of outdoor construction work in the area of Wallisville Road and 610.

Just a reminder if you are outdoors watch out for some of the symptoms and they include heavy sweating, weakness, quick pulse, nausea, fainting and clammy skin. If you have any of those symptoms you should seek medical attention.