TULSA -- EMSA issued a heat alert for the area after making several calls to heat-related problems throughout the day Friday, one that was considered serious.
As of 4 p.m. Friday, EMSA medics had responded to six heat-related calls, one of them a person down who refused treatment, four transported to the hospital in non-emergent condition and another considered emergent.
EMSA issues a medical heat alert when we respond to five or more suspected heat-related illness calls in a 24-hour period.
EMSA urges citizens to make a plan to stay safe. First responders advise that you make plans to consume enough fluids to be sufficient in accordance to the amount of time you are planning to be outdoors.
Even if it is a short amount of outdoors, it is imperative you stay hydrated.
Tips for staying healthy in the heat:
- Always carry a cell phone to call 9-1-1 in case you are caught out and become distressed.
- Pre-hydration is key in preventing heat-related illness. Drink plenty of water or electrolyte replacement drinks several hours prior to and during long exposure to the summer heat.
- Wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing and a wide brimmed hat if working outdoors and take plenty of shade breaks.
- No alcohol or caffeine.
- If you do not have air conditioning, find a cooling station or public space (such as libraries or malls) during the day.
- Also, don’t limit your air conditioning. If you are concerned about your electric bill, call PSO or 211. They have programs that could possibly help you.
- Use the buddy system if working outdoors and check on elderly neighbors.
The following cooling stations are open until further notice:
1) The Salvation Army Center of Hope
102 N. Denver Ave.
Tulsa, OK 74103
24/7
2) Tulsa County Social Services Cooling station
2401 Charles Page Blvd.
Tulsa OK 74127
8:30 am – 8 pm
3) John 3:16 Mission
506 N. Cheyenne
Tulsa, Okla. 74103
24/7
Dial 2-1-1 for locations, hours and other information. Dial 2-1-1 for more information on applying for a free, loaned air conditioning unit.
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