EMSA Issues Medical Heat Alert For OKC Area

EMSA issued a medical heat alert on Thursday for the Oklahoma City area.

Paramedics responded to five heat-related illness call in the Oklahoma City area as of 3:30 p.m. Thursday.

EMSA issues a medical heat alert whenever paramedics respond to at least five heat-related illness calls in a 24-hour period. It will remain in effect until temperatures and heat-related call volume decrease significantly.

The agency recommends people take heat precautions when heading outside for the next several days.

Heat safety tips include:

1. 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.
2. Wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing and a wide brimmed hat if working outdoors and take plenty of shade breaks.
3. No alcohol or caffeine. 
4. If you do not have air conditioning, find a cooling station or public space (such as libraries or malls) during the day.
5. Don’t limit your use of air conditioning. 
6. Use the buddy system if working outdoors and check on elderly neighbors.
7. Keep a cell phone on you at all times when outdoors, including walking, running daily errands, yard work or sports and physical activity.

This is the third heat alert of 2021 for the Oklahoma City area.