EMSA Says Power Outage Related 911 Calls Are Unsustainable

Thousands in Northeast Oklahoma are without power and these outages are overwhelming the 911 system as people call about medications and oxygen tanks. EMSA's Chief Public Affairs Officer Adam Paluka joined New On 6 on Tuesday to talk about how EMSA is responding and what they want everyone to know.

Tuesday, February 16th 2021, 6:23 pm

By: Jonathan Cooper

TULSA, Okla. -

EMSA said Tuesday’s power outages led to a surge in 911 calls, which overwhelmed their system.

EMSA said a lot of the calls came from people who rely on oxygen and powered medical equipment.

EMSA's Chief Public Affairs Officer Adam Paluka joined News On 6 at noon and said the high call volume pushed the 911 system to a level that was unsustainable.

Paluka said since their primary job is to transport patients to hospitals, they cannot provide updates about power outages or medical equipment.

He said if you are on oxygen the best thing to do is contact your medical provider and develop an outage plan.

Also, ask your doctor about refrigerated medication and how long it can be stored at higher temperatures.

Paluka still stresses though, call 911 if you have an emergency.

"We just want to make sure that our EMSA crews are available for folks who are experiencing medical emergencies and need immediate medical attention," said Paluka.

PSO said if you are on oxygen, you can alert the company through your account.