TULSA, Okla. — UPDATE (6/25/22; 7:56 p.m.) — EMSA has responded to ten suspected heat-related illness calls in the Tulsa area as of 7:45 p.m., with four patients transported to the hospital. The Medical Heat Alert has been extended and remains in effect.
UPDATE (6/16/22; 3:57 p.m.) — EMSA’s Medical Heat Alert issued Saturday, June 11, has been extended through at least Monday, EMSA said Thursday afternoon.
EMSA is still responding to “a handful” of heat-related calls each day.
UPDATE (6/12/22) 5:03 p.m. — EMSA has responded to six suspected heat-related illness calls in our Tulsa service area as of 5:00 p.m. with one patient transported to the hospital. The Medical Heat Alert remains in effect.
EMSA has issued the second Medical Heat Alert of 2022 after they responded to five heat-related illness calls in the Tulsa area as of 8:30 p.m., June 11.
EMSA strongly recommends people take heat precautions when spending time outside over the weekend and into next week as temperatures remain high.
HEAT SAFETY TIPS:
- 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.
- Wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing and a wide brimmed hat if working outdoors and take plenty of shade breaks.
- No alcohol or caffeine.
- If you do not have air conditioning, find a cooling station or public space (such as libraries or malls) during the day.
- Don’t limit your use of air conditioning.
- Use the buddy system if working outdoors and check on elderly neighbors.
- Keep a cell phone on you at all times when outdoors, including walking, running daily errands, yard work or sports and physical activity.