EMSA's Heat Alert For Tulsa Extended

By Chris Wright, The News On 6

TULSA, OK -- The high temperatures mean an excessive heat warning remains in effect for the Tulsa area.  EMSA provided care to five people for heat-related illnesses on Tuesday, four of which of were children.  Officials continue to urge everyone to take it easy during this heat wave.

Tuesday at the Tulsa Zoo, both animals and over-heated parents were forced to deal with the oppressive temperatures.

"It's not anything like I thought it would be. Too hot," said Tiffany Shelden from Arkansas.

After hiding from the sun in their den most of the day, some three-month-old lion cubs were finally lured from their den.  Their curiosity was piqued by a giant ice cube.

"They bat that around, and it's a lot of fun for them.   It's enrichment, things they like to do to keep them busy during the day, but it also keeps them cool," said Angela Evans with the Tulsa Zoo.

Cubs of another kind seemed unfazed by the sweltering sun.  Some four and five-year-olds energetically played their tee ball game, while moms and dads sought shelter in the shade. 

Experts say kids can't regulate their body temperatures as well as adults, and often don't realize they are dehydrated.  So, parents kept a watchful eye on their children while they were both on and off the field.

"We're going to make sure they're well hydrated and have all the fluids they need," said parent Jason Archambeau.

"We are very careful. I make sure he gets enough rest time before we come out here, drinks water for dinner before we even come out. We bring a cooler of water for all the kids to drink," added parent, Rhonda Shiflet.

While some found refuge walking amidst sprinklers, others had no choice but to tough it out.

At the hottest point of the day, some construction workers labored near Riverside Drive.  And, with an excessive heat warning in place until Thursday, there's little relief in sight.

To deal with the heat, ODOT is altering its work schedule.  It says some of its shifts this week will begin as early as 4 a.m.

Newson6.com has tips for dealing with the extreme heat.