EMSA issues first Medical Heat Alert of the year

(TULSA, Okla.) UPDATE 1: EMSA spokesperson Adam Paluka said as of 6:00 p.m. Saturday, June 6th, EMSA medics have responded to an additional 4 suspected heat-related illness calls in the Tulsa area, bringing the day’s total number of heat calls to 11. ORIGINAL STORY: EMSA has issued the following Medical Heat Alert: As of 1:30p.m. Saturday, June 6th, EMSA medics have responded to 7 suspected heat-related calls in the Tulsa area. EMSA is issuing the first Medical Heat Alert for 2020. EMSA issues a Medical Heat Alert when medics respond to five or more suspected heat-related illness calls in a 24-hour period – the Medical Heat Alert will expire when EMSA responds to fewer than 5 suspected heat-related calls in a single day. EMSA is urging citizens to make a plan to stay safe over the next several days. Plan the amount of time you think will be outdoors and take appropriate amounts of water or other fluids with you, even if just planning for a short amount of outdoor time. Emergencies can happen and you could be stranded outdoors longer than expected. Always have a cell phone with you to call 911, if needed. Plan your schedule to allow for frequent breaks indoors, if possible.

Tips for staying healthy in the heat: · 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. · 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. · Keep a cell phone on you at all times when outdoors, including walking, running daily errands, yard work or sports and physical activity. The following cooling stations are open for business until further notice. We encourage all to practice social distancing if they utilize a cooling station: The Salvation Army Center of Hope 102 N. Denver Ave. Tulsa, OK 74103 24/7 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 information on applying for a window unit air conditioner or other resources.