LIVINGSTON – Fans gathered on the University of West Alabama campus for the school’s season opener against Clark-Atlanta on Saturday battled heat in nearly 100-degree weather. Safety officials at the game say that more than 30 individuals were treated for overheating.

Director of Campus Safety Jeff Manuel credits Livingston Fire & Rescue as well as several members of the University training staff for their assistance in addressing the needs of those who suffered from overheating.

“We had to transport a few people to the hospital, but most were able to be treated here on campus by our dedicated staff,” Manuel said.

While many fans found some amount of relief in shaded areas of Tiger Stadium, the heat index was enough to exhaust some.

“This type of heat isn’t what most people expect for football season, so it’s important for us to make sure everybody stays hydrated and that they don’t over-exert themselves,” Manuel said. “I’m very thankful that our staff was able to treat everyone and that there were no more serious cases.”

Manuel and his staff remind all that staying hydrated is a major key to avoiding heat exhaustion.