EMSA Issues Medical Heat Alert

EMSA has issued the first medical heat alert of the year.

According to EMSA, as of 2:00 Wednesday afternoon, five patients have been treated with heat-related symptoms. Two of the five were taken to local hospitals.

EMSA suggests six tips to stay 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.
• Also, don’t limit your air conditioning. If you are concerned about your electric bill, call PSO. They have programs that could possibly help you.
• Use the buddy system if working outdoors and check on elderly neighbors.

Right now there are several cooling stations open as well at:

The Salvation Army Center of Hope
102 N. Denver Ave.
Tulsa, OK 74103
24/7

Tulsa County Social Services Cooling station
2401 Charles Page Blvd.
Tulsa OK 74127
8:30 am – 8:00 pm

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

John 3:16 Mission
506 N. Cheyenne
Tulsa, Okla. 74103
24/7

EMSA says Senior Nutrition sites throughout Tulsa are also available as cooling stations.

You can also dial 211 for more information.