TULSA, Okla. — With freezing temperatures expected in the coming weeks, the Emergency Medical Services Authority is warning Tulsa area residents to take precautions.
EMSA said residents should wear proper clothing, including multiple warm layers of clothing, hats, gloves, sturdy shoes, and limiting time outdoors.
The ambulance service is also encouraging residents to check on their neighbors, family, and friends to make sure they have transportation when needed, adequate heating in their homes, or access to a shelter.
EMSA warned residents to make sure that space heaters are correctly used to prevent deadly carbon monoxide poisoning and fires. Officials said it is vital to make sure that heaters are not directly located next to flammable sources such as curtains, blankets, or bedding. You should also avoid using outdoor grills, gas ovens, or propane heaters indoors.
EMSA provided the following tips to help people stay warm while working or staying outside in the cold:
- When possible, try to work in an area sheltered from the wind.
- Dress appropriately. Wear at least three layers of clothing: an outer layer to break the wind and allow some ventilation (like gortex or nylon); a middle layer of wool, down, or synthetic pile to absorb sweat and retain insulating properties when wet; and an inner layer of cotton or synthetic weave to allow ventilation and escape of perspiration.
- Layer clothing to create air pockets that help retain body heat. Layering also makes adapting to changes in weather and level of physical exertion easier.
- Keep a change of clothing available in case your work clothes get wet. If your clothes get wet, you should try to change into dry clothes as soon as possible.
- Pay special attention to protecting your feet, hands, head, and face. Your head should be covered (up to 40% of your body heat can be lost when your head is exposed). Fingers and hands lose their dexterity at temperatures below 59°F. Find gloves that will allow you to perform the tasks you need to perform and remember to put dry gloves on if your gloves get wet.
- Wear boots or shoes that protect against cold and dampness. Footwear needs be insulated and fit comfortably with several layers of socks.
- Avoid wearing dirty or greasy clothing because they have poor insulating properties and will allow you to get cold faster than clean clothing.
The following locations are open to serve as warming stations with some limitations due to COVID-19.
The Salvation Army Center of Hope
102 N. Denver Ave.
Tulsa, OK 74103
24/7 ***Due to social distancing capacity limits are in place.***
John 3:16 Mission
506 N. Cheyenne
Tulsa, Okla. 74103
24/7
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