EMSA Treats 16 More Patients For Heat, Issues Alert

NewsOn6.com

TULSA, Oklahoma -- Since midnight Wednesday morning, EMSA paramedics have responded to 16 patients with signs and symptoms of heat-related illness by 9:30 p.m., according to Captain Chris Stevens.

"The record for this summer is 17 heat-related responses," he said. "It is likely we will meet or exceed that record by midnight."

When EMSA responds to five or more heat-related medical calls within 24 hours, they issue a heat alert to advise the public of the severe health risks posed by the heat.

News On 6 tips for surviving extreme heat

They remind the public to:

• Pre-hydrate before starting the day
• Consume plenty of water and/or Gatorade
• Wear light colored, loose fitting clothing
• Take frequent breaks in the shade
• Cut out beverages containing caffeine, carbonation and alcohol

8/2/2011 Related Story: Deadly Heat Is Taking Its Toll On Oklahomans

Tulsa currently has three cooling stations open to the public:

Tulsa County Social Services
2401 Charles Page Blvd, Tulsa, OK
8:30 a.m. - 8:30 p.m. 7 days a week

Dennis R. Neill Equality Center
621 East 4th Street
Tulsa, OK 74120
Noon to 9 p.m., 7 days a week

Salvation Army Center of Hope
102 N. Denver Ave., Tulsa, OK
Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week