Tulsa EMSA Issues Heat Alert; Six Patients Treated

EMSA issued a heat alert for Tulsa Thursday afternoon, and responded to six suspected heat-related calls as of 8:30 p.m.

The patients’ ages ranged from 16 to 65 years old, EMSA said.

Two of the patients were transported to local hospitals. A 50-year-old man was transported emergent (or serious condition) from a local business.

Other patients were in residential areas or public areas and were treated at the scene.

7/17/2017 Related Story: Toddler Locked In Hot Car; EMSA Issues Heat Alert For Tulsa

EMSA is urging citizens to make a plan to stay safe.

Plan the amount of time you think will be outdoors and take appropriate amounts of water or other fluids with you, even if just planning for a short amount of outdoor time, EMSA said.

Emergencies can happen and you could be stranded outdoors longer than expected.

Always have a cell with you to call 911, if needed.
 
Plan your schedule to allow for frequent breaks indoors, if possible.
 
Tips for staying healthy in the heat:

• 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.
• Also, don’t limit your air conditioning. If you are concerned about your electric bill, call PSO or 211. They have programs that could possibly help you.
• 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.

The following cooling stations are open for business until further notice:
 
The Salvation Army Center of Hope
102 N. Denver Ave.
Tulsa, OK 74103
24/7
 
Tulsa County Social Services Cooling station
2401 Charles Page Blvd.
Tulsa OK 74127
8:30 a.m. – 8 p.m.
 
Dennis R. Neill Equality Center
621 East 4th Street
Tulsa, OK 74120
Noon to 9 pm 7-days a week
 
John 3:16 Mission
506 N. Cheyenne
Tulsa, Okla. 74103
24/7

Senior Nutrition sites throughout the Tulsa area are also available as Cooling Stations

Dial 21- for locations, hours and other information. Dial 211 for more information on applying for a free, loaned air conditioning unit.

EMSA issues a medical heat alert when we respond to five or more suspected heat-related illness calls in a 24-hour period.