Cooling Stations Open Around Tulsa As Temperatures Remain High

Paramedics are staying busy with heat-related calls on Wednesday.

EMSA officials said if you're not drinking water days before you go outside, you're already behind.

"Pretty much like if you get in the sun direct heat it's real hot out there. I mean it's like unbearable," said Ron McGinley.

Ricky McCullough and Ron McGinley were at John 3:16 Mission trying to cool off at one of the city's cooling stations.

"What we're really seeing that's affecting us at this point in time is that not as many people that used to do cooling stations right now and so our numbers are up I would say significantly at this point in time at least for part of the day," said Reverend Steve Whitaker.

Reverend Whitaker said they're getting ready for even more people heading to John 3:16 over the next several days as the temperature climbs. EMSA said they responded to 11 hear-related calls on Monday and Tuesday. They expect it to only get worse with the heat index taking out temperatures well above 100. "When we get that first heat spell it kind of catches everyone by surprise. Then if it stays hot we do okay until it slacks off again then we'll see more when it spikes. So we may just be adapted to it for the time being," said Shawn Burch.

EMSA's advice is to wear sunscreen and lightweight clothing, wear a hat, and start drinking water several days before doing a lot of activity outside. "Be hydrated, keep drinking water. Take a break and head to the shade whenever you can," said Ricky McCullough.

From the City of Tulsa website:

1. Two Cooling stations are open in Tulsa for individuals and families seeking shelter from the extreme heat.
2. Tulsa County Social Services | 2401 Charles Page Blvd | 8:30 a.m. - 8 p.m.
3. John 3:16 Mission | 506 N. Cheyenne | Open 24/7
4. The Salvation Army Center of Hope | 102 N. Denver Ave. | Open 24/7 - Capacity limits are in place