Heat Alert Issued for Metro

News9.com

OKLAHOMA CITY -- As temperatures climb back into the 90s this week, EMSA has issued another heat alert for the metro.

Paramedics responded to 10 heat-related calls since Tuesday. More than 1,500 people on average in the U.S. die each year from excessive heat. Paramedics said it is extremely important to drink plenty of water and avoid going out in the blazing heat, if possible.

The heat index is expected to climb well past 100 degrees this week.

EMSA officials said the alert will remain in place until the temperatures drop significantly.

Symptoms of heat exhaustion include:

• being dizzy, tired or weak

• fainting spells

• getting flushed

• heavy sweating

• fast heartbeat

Paramedics recommend calling 911 if these systems persist for about an hour after someone moves into a cool place.