EMSA keeps Medical Heat Alert in effect as heat-related illnesses continue in Oklahoma City metro area
OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) – EMSA is continuing the Medical Heat Alert issued this past Friday, after responding to multiple heat-related illness calls in the Oklahoma City metro area on Wednesday.
Paramedics responded to five suspected heat-related illness calls as of 3:30 p.m. Wednesday.
EMSA officials ask that people take the following precautions when outside over the next several days:
- 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.
EMSA issues Medical Heat Alerts when paramedics respond to five or more heat-related illness calls in a 24-hour period.
The Heat Alert will remain active until the temperatures and heat-related call volume decrease significantly.
Temperatures will continue to climb through the rest of the week.
The 4 Warn Forecast for the next several days is as follows: