Using cologne or alcohol on the skin as a quick way to cool down is a practice some people try during heat waves. Rosemary alcohol is also used for muscle and joint discomfort and for relief from drafts, cold, or dampness. Yet alcohol can actually chill the skin briefly as it evaporates, and overuse or improper application can be dangerous. The cooling effect is temporary and the process can lead to harm if the skin is exposed repeatedly or if a large area is soaked. In practice, this approach can cause skin irritation, burns, or more serious injury in certain situations.
This danger was seen in a case from a town in the Murcia region. In Yecla, a woman who wanted to ease the intense heat ended up applying alcohol to several parts of her body. Moments later, a tragic accident occurred when she accidentally caught fire. The woman, 71 years old, suffered severe burns and was rushed to a hospital for treatment. Unfortunately, she did not survive the injuries and died that morning.
After the incident, authorities reported that the cause of death would be determined through an official medical review. The case underscored that exposing skin to alcohol and flames is a harmful combination that can lead to fatal outcomes. People were reminded to prioritize safe cooling methods and to handle any flammable substances with care to avoid such tragedies.
In another incident around the same period, a 45-year-old man died after being found unconscious in a fountain near Murcia’s Malecón. The death occurred as the heat drove people to seek relief in water, but witnesses noted that the man appeared to be under the influence of a toxin or substance. The circumstances highlighted the risks associated with heat exposure and possible impairment during extreme conditions.
In Totana, a town nearby, a middle-aged resident was found collapsed in a private courtyard in the Raiguero area, a small hamlet with just over 200 inhabitants. The alert came in by a relative who found the man unresponsive and not breathing. Emergency responders attended, but his condition indicated a fatal outcome. Such events emphasize the need for cautious behavior during heat waves and the importance of timely medical attention when someone shows signs of severe distress.