CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — The writing is on the sidewalk!
The countdown to the Buc Days Rally Night Parade is on and families have already been out along the parade route on Leopard Street claiming their spots.
If the chalk markings on the street are any indication then you know this year's parade will be packed.
Keep in mind that you can only use chalk and you can't actually set up your area until after 5 p.m. on Friday.
Now with thousands of folks expected to line the parade route Saturday, Corpus Christi first responders are gearing up for the crowds.
As you can imagine trying to get a fire truck or ambulance through the parade crowd can be tough, which is why the department usually trades in those big box emergency vehicles for something a little smaller during events like this one.
While all eyes will be focused on the colorful floats, and the sweet sounds of marching bands, firefighters and EMTs will have their sights set on something else.
"Minor injuries, minor cuts, bruises, heat related illnesses are the top ones we come across," Battalion Chief Andrew Cortez said.
The crowds can make for a tight squeeze for emergency vehicles, which is why a dedicated team of EMT personnel with CCFD are trading in their fire trucks and taking a spin on a different form of transportation, bicycles!
Cortez gave 3NEWS a look at the department's newest editions to their fleet.
The bikes come in fire-engine red and yellow, and have all the bells and whistles.
"We decided to revitalize the team due to its versatility and accessibility," Cortez said.
Made up of 25 members, the new bike team will also be fitted with first aid bags for any given situation.
"Trauma supplies, airway supplies, IV kits, AEDs," he said.
They will also use ATV type vehicles as they have at past parades, but this will be the first big event to roll out the bicycle patrol.
Cortez said first responders will be strategically placed along the parade route.
"Reduces response time significantly, they can get into places where ambulances can't and can start patient assessment immediately and treatment immediately," he said.
One of the biggest medical issues they respond to year after year is folks passing out or getting dizzy from the heat whether that's families watching from the sideline or even those who are in the parade wearing heavy and elaborate costumes or uniforms.
His advice for everyone along the parade route is to drink plenty of water.
"Hydrate before, during and after the parade," he said.
He also said if you have a loved one who is in need of medical care, call 911 first which will then dispatch the bike patrol.
He said It's a good idea to know the signs of heat exhaustion which is characterized by weakness, heavy sweating and heat stroke which is dry, hot skin and confusion.