Cold exposure sends seven to the hospital

Photo Courtesy: National Weather Service-Tulsa (TULSA, Okla.) The current round of cold weather is proving harmful in Tulsa. EMSA spokesperson Adam Paluka said they responded to nine cold exposure calls on Monday. Seven were transported to local hospitals. “We want people to check-in on loved ones and be aware of the signs and symptoms of hypothermia,” Paluka said. “Hypothermia is a medical emergency that occurs when your body loses heat faster than it can produce heat, causing a dangerously low body temperature. Normal body temperature is around 98.6 F. Hypothermia occurs as your body temperature falls below 95 F.” He said signs and symptoms of hypothermia include shivering, slurred speech or mumbling, slow, shallow breathing, weak pulse, clumsiness or lack of coordination, drowsiness or very low energy, confusion or memory loss, loss of consciousness and bright red, cold skin in infants. National Weather Service- Tulsa issued a Winter Weather Advisory for Northeast Oklahoma until 7 p.m. Tuesday. If you are prepared for the hazards of winter, you will be more likely to stay safe and healthy when temperatures start to fall. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offer the following tips to prepare and protect yourself from winter weather: Winterize your home. Install weather stripping, insulation, and storm windows. Get your car ready for cold weather. Service the radiator and maintain antifreeze level; check tire tread or, if necessary, replace tires with all-weather or snow tires. Keep an emergency kit in your car including blankets, food and water, first aid, and other items you may need if you are stranded. Be prepared for weather-related emergencies, including power outages. Prevent CO poisoning. Install a CO detector and check that it has a working battery. Have your heating system checked by a qualified professional. Never use a gas range or oven to heat your home. Take precaution when spending time outdoors. Wear appropriate outdoor clothing and be aware of the wind chill factor. Check weather reports, telling someone where you are going to be (if long drive or ice fishing). Always have a fully charged cellphone and carry a portable recharger, if possible. Be aware of current and forecast weather conditions when planning for travel. If you have pets, bring them inside. If you cannot bring them inside, provide adequate, warm shelter and unfrozen water to drink.