TULSA, Okla. – The City of Tulsa is taking steps to help people beat the heat, with several cooling stations open and splash pads staying open through Labor Day, with extended operational hours.
To see a list of splash pad locations, visit: www.cityoftulsa.org/aquatics
Residents can cool off at several cooling stations around town.
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John 3:16 Mission | 506 N. Cheyenne, Open during daylight hours
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Salvation Army | 102 N. Denver Ave., Open during daylight hours
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Tulsa Day Center | 415 West Archer St., Open during daylight hours
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Tulsa County Social Services | 2401 Charles Page Blvd., 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.
The city says public spaces like libraries and community centers are also available during normal business hours.
As the extreme heat continues, the City’s partner, Housing Solutions, is sending outreach teams to check on the homeless, hand out water and cooling supplies, and offer rides to shelters.
Tulsans wanting to help city outreach can donate to the city’s partner, Housing Solutions.
You can donate water, sunscreen, deodorant, and more by checking out the online wishlist.
The Tulsa Day Center is also asking for donations of water and other summer items through its online wishlist.
Here are some tips from the City of Tulsa:
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Pre-Hydration is key in preventing heat-related illness. Drink plenty of water or electrolyte replacement drinks several hours prior to and during long exposure to the summer heat.
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Wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing and a wide-brimmed hat if working outdoors and take plenty of shade breaks.
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Refrain from alcohol and/or caffeine.
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If you do not have air conditioning, find a cooling station or public space (such as libraries or malls) during the day.
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Don’t limit your use of air conditioning.
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Use the buddy system if working outdoors and check on elderly neighbors.
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Keep a cell phone on you at all times when outdoors, including walking, running daily errands, yard work, or sports and physical activity.
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Never leave your kids or pets in a hot car.
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If your kids want to be outside, limit playtime to the early morning or evening hours. Make sure your kids have access to cool water and a place to cool down – and don’t forget the sunscreen, just 15 minutes unprotected in 100+ degree temperatures can cause a severe sunburn.
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Do not rely only on electric fans during extreme heat. When temperatures are in the high 90s, fans may not prevent heat-related illness. Taking a cool shower or bath or moving to an air-conditioned place is a much better way to cool off.
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If you do not have air conditioning or if there is a power outage, find locations where you can stay cool (see above).
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Limit walks and outdoor playtime to the morning and evenings. If the ground is too hot to touch, it’s too hot for your pet’s paws. Temperatures in the 90s are all it takes to heat up pavement to temperatures above 130 degrees. If you are out when temperatures rise above 90 degrees, walk your dog on the grass.
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Ensure your dog has access to cool water when they are outside and always supervise them when in your yard.
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When traveling by car, keep your pets safe and secure in a well-ventilated crate or carrier; secure it so it won’t slide or shift during an abrupt stop. NEVER leave your pet in a hot car, even if for a short amount of time.
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Owned cats should be kept indoors at all times. Cats always need fresh, cool water and ventilation.
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If you see an animal outside without access to shade or water, call Tulsa Animal Welfare at (918) 596-8001.
