EMSA Heat Alert Extended

The EMSA Heat Alert issued for the Tulsa area for Saturday will extend through the weekend.

By 4 p.m. Saturday, EMSA paramedics had treated seven patients, including two firefighters sickened at a house fire, suffering from symptoms of heat-related illness after prolonged time in the heat. When EMSA provides care to five or more patients with symptoms of heat-related illness in a 24-hour period and high temperatures are expected to continue, EMSA sounds an alert to warn citizens of the present danger.

Patients treated on Saturday ranged in age from 28 to 76. Two had been playing soccer outdoors, but even people engaged in non-strenuous activity are at risk when temperatures skyrocket. Three patients treated by EMSA for suspected heat-related illness on Saturday had been engaged in simple, leisurely activities outdoors when they fell ill.

To avoid heat-related illnesses on EMSA Heat Alert days, paramedics urge everyone to take extra precautions, including:
• Reducing outdoor activity
• Avoiding exercise during the heat of the day
• Staying well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water (and limiting caffeinated beverages and alcohol which can contribute to dehydration)
• Wearing lightweight, light-colored clothing
• Visiting a library, indoor shopping mall, community center or church if there is no air conditioning in the home

People who regularly work in a controlled office environment should be particularly cautious over the weekend. Each year, EMSA responds to a number of people sickened while catching up on household chores like lawn work and painting. Anyone working outdoors or in hot environments should take very frequent breaks, drink water regularly (before, during and after work, and as much needed so that thirst is not felt), wear appropriate clothing and avoid alcohol and caffeine.