Climbing temps prompt EMSA to issue new heat alert

Last Updated on August 11, 2023, 5:53 PM | Published: August 11, 2023

OKLAHOMA CITY — After a rash of heat-related illnesses that EMSA responded to Friday, they issued another heat alert for the Oklahoma City metro. It is the third such heat alert so far in 2023.

This heat alert will remain in place through Sunday, August 13th.

The last heat alert lasted over three weeks from June into July racking up 99 calls before EMSA had a break and was able to rescind it.

“Medics have responded to six (6) suspected heat-related illness calls in our OKC service area as of 4:30 p.m. today,” read a press release Friday afternoon. “EMSA medics have transported four (4) patients to local hospitals today because of their symptoms.”

EMSA recommends taking the following precautions against injury from the heat:

Heat safety tips from EMSA

Here are EMSA’s tips on how to avoid heat-related illness:

• 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 a Medical Heat Alert when paramedics respond to five or more heat-related illness calls in a 24-hour period. EMSA’s Heat Alert will remain in effect until the temperatures and/or heat-related call volume decrease significantly.