Tulsa-Area Students Taking The Heat This Summer

The peak of the summer heat is coming along at the start of band camps and football practices, and that means a lot of kids are getting out in the heat and staying there. 

The heat is on high on the field at Broken Arrow, where the Drum Corp Cadets are practicing for a show Tuesday night. They're a top ranked drum corps, and they didn't get that good without hard work, regardless of the weather.

"We're pushing through the elements.  It's hard, it's hot, but we're doing it," said James Gall, Drum Corps.

The cadets come from all over the country - some accustomed to the heat, some not - but they're well trained to keep drinking. Even though they practice through the hottest part of the day, they take regular breaks for water.

 "From a stamina standpoint, they're ready to do it, but for the elements, they've just got to make sure they're taking care of their bodies and we make sure we take care of them, with plenty of water, plenty of rest, and good food to replace those calories that they're sweating off," said Adam Wiencken, Broken Arrow Band.

It's no different for the football players starting their drills. The middle school team at Edison in Tulsa is just working out, building up to practice that starts in early August.

"We definitely want them to sweat," said Coach Wes Hamilton, Edison Middle School. "We've got some kids who have been couch potatoes for a while; we want them exercising, lifting weights."

That tough love comes with plenty of water - all they can drink.

"Anytime they look like they need water, ask for it, we get it to them, it's open drink, anytime you want something, you can get it."
The older kids are more used to it - and have had more time to learn that waiting until a thirst comes doesn't work as well as building up a reserve.

Jack Hale, Edison HS Quarterback:  "Well, starts with hydrating the day before and you're ready to go the next day."

EMSA reports that they have responded to several heat-related calls over the last few days - many of which involve activities like golfing or going to the zoo. They recommend if you will be out in the heat for an extended amount of time, plan to take frequent breaks indoors or at least in the shade.

Tips for staying healthy in heat:

• Pre-hydrate by drinking plenty of water and/or electrolyte replacement drinks several hours before as well as during outdoor activities
• Wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing and a wide-brimmed hat
• Avoid alcohol and caffeine
• Take frequent breaks indoors or in the shade
• Use your air conditioning or go to a cooling station or public place such as library or mall during the day. If you are concerned about your electric bill, contact PSO for possible help
• Use a buddy system if working outdoors and go check on elderly neighbors
• Always have a charged cell phone with you so you can call 911 if needed

And never leave a child or animal in a car without supervision

Cooling stations:

The following cooling stations are open for business until further notice, according to EMSA:
 
The Salvation Army Center of Hope
102 N. Denver Ave.
Tulsa, OK 74103
24 hours/7 days a week
Bus route near the facility: Yes, stops at the corner of the property
Provisions:  Cold water at all times, public meal available at 1 p.m. daily
 

Tulsa County Social Services Cooling station
2401 Charles Page Blvd.
Tulsa OK 74127
10 a.m. – 8 p.m. 7 days a week
Bus route near facility: Yes, stops at the corner of the property
Provisions:  Drinks, snacks, meals if needed
Other: Age-appropriate movies, coloring books, etc. for children

 
Dennis R. Neill Equality Center
621 East 4th Street
Tulsa, OK 74120
Noon to 9 pm 7-days a week and holidays
Bus route near the facility: Yes, right in front of the center
Provisions: Free bottled water
Other: Pets on leashes or in crates allowed.
 

John 3:16 Mission
506 N. Cheyenne
Tulsa, Okla. 74103
24 hours/7 days a week
Bus route near facility: Yes, Routes 101 and 105
Provisions:  Cold water, light snacks
Other: Chapel and dinner nightly at 5:45 p.m.
 
Senior Nutrition sites throughout the Tulsa area are also available as Cooling Stations. Dial 211 for locations, hours and other information. Dial 211 for more information on applying for a free, loaned air conditioning unit.