The Heat Dome: Health Officials Offer Summer Safety Reminders

It's already hot across much of the country and over the last year, heat waves have been happening more often. If you're planning on spending a lot of time outside know how to prevent heat illnesses.

Monday, June 17th 2024, 9:11 am

By: News On 6

TULSA, Okla. -

It's already hot across much of the country and over the last year, heat waves have been happening more often.

A large portion of the Southern US is under a heat dome and it's moving northeast. The US Department of Health and Human Services says there were nearly 2,300 heat-related deaths last year while the US Environmental Protection Agency said that muti-day heat waves are happening three times as often as they did in the 60s.

The EPA says more concrete has contributed to the increase as well as the changing climate worldwide. Learn More Here

In Tulsa, EMSA said its medical heat alert remains in effect for the Tulsa area through at least the end of Monday. EMSA said it responded to five heat-related illness calls on Friday alone. They haven't released any additional numbers yet from over the weekend.

EMSA says so far medics in Tulsa have responded to 29 heat-related calls this year.

What are some ways Oklahomans can stay cool ahead of the hot temperatures this summer?

Do not exercise intensely during the hottest times of the day and wear light loose-fitting clothing. Make sure to drink lots of liquids to replace the fluids you lose from sweating. To keep cool, spritz skin with water and block out windows with a blanket or sheet during the day.

What are the signs of heat exhaustion?

The Centers for Disease Control recommends adults watch out for signs of heat exhaustion which can be; heavy sweating, cold, pale, and clammy skin, a fast, weak pulse, nausea, vomiting, muscle cramps, fatigue, dizziness, headaches, and fainting. If experiencing these symptoms people should drink water, move to a cooler area or take a cool bath. Lastly, medical attention should be sought out if symptoms last longer than an hour.

What are the signs of heat stroke?

The CDC defines heat stroke symptoms as– hot, red, dry, or damp skin; a fast and strong pulse; a headache; dizziness; nausea; confusion and passing out. If someone is experiencing these symptoms, call 911 immediately, and try to move the person into the shade or a cooler area. Try to lower your body temperature by using cool clothes.

How to protect kids from heat exhaustion and heat stroke

Parents and caregivers should be aware of the dangers of heat exhaustion and heat stroke in young children and take precautions such as having them wear lightweight and light-colored clothing, use sunscreen, and stay hydrated. To keep cool, activities like playing in the water or in the shade should be encouraged, and a spray bottle can help increase comfort. Children who are experiencing a heat stroke may also have a high fever or even seizures.

High Alert For Weeds Pollen

Click Here For More Details From Oklahoma Allery & Asthma Clinic

For more information about heat exhaustion and heat strokes from the CDC, click here.

How do I keep my pet safe from intense heat?

Pets are susceptible to dehydration and overheating in hot and humid weather. Owners should provide shady places for pets, limit exercise, and keep them indoors in extreme heat. Signs of overheating include excessive panting, increased heart and respiratory rates, drooling, weakness, stupor, seizures, bloody diarrhea, and vomiting.

For more information on how to keep your pet safe, click here.

How to protect your skin from intense heat

Stay hydrated throughout the day and refuel your body with proper sleep. To protect your skin from damage, apply a water-resistant broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 every 2 hours. Make sure to wear protective clothing, use a lip balm with an SPF of at least 15, and avoid the sun between 10 am and 4 pm.

For skin safety tips, click here.