OKC EMSA Issues First Heat Alert Of Summer In 2012

EMSA officials have issued the first heat alert of this summer Monday afternoon.

According to officials, as of 9:30 p.m. Monday, paramedics have treated and transported seven people with symptoms of heat-related illness and several more people with symptoms of illness that may be heat-related.

Officials say when paramedics respond to five or more hear-related medical calls in a 24-hour period, and dangerously hot weather is expected to continue, an EMSA Heat Alert will be issued.

EMSA officials offered following tips on preventing heat-related illness:

• PRE-HYDRATION is key in preventing heat related illness. Drink plenty of water or electrolyte replacement drinks several hours prior to 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.

Officials also stated there is no "safe" amount of time kids can be left in a hot car. How quickly a child becomes ill varies widely based on a number of conditions, including:

• The child's hydration level to begin with the temperature in the car (which can vary based on car interior, temperature outdoors, whether there is shade, etc.)
• The child's weight
• The child's overall health (diabetes and other chronic medical conditions can make a child less able to tolerate the heat), and any medications the child may be taken.
• Pets are also susceptible to the same dangers as humans when left in cars during the summer months.