OKLAHOMA CITY – EMSA has issued the first Heat Alert of the year.
Officials say by 7:30 p.m. Thursday, medics have responded to nine heat-related emergency calls.
EMSA issues a medical Heat Alert when paramedics respond to five or more suspected heat-related illness calls in a 24-hour period.
Those most prone to heart exhaustion are elderly people, people with high blood pressure and people working or exercising in a hot environment.
Warning signs of heat exhaustion:
- Heavy sweating
- Paleness
- Muscle cramps
- Tiredness
- Weakness
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Nausea or vomiting
- Fainting
Tips for staying healthy in the heat:
- Drink plenty of water or electrolyte replacement drinks several hours prior to and during long exposure to summer heat
- Wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing and a wide brimmed hat if working outdoors. Be sure to take plenty of shade breaks
- Do not drink alcohol or caffeine
- Do not leave infants, children or pets in a parked car
- Find a cooling station or public space during the day if you don’t have access to 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, sports or physical activity
Call 911 if symptoms worsen or last longer than one hour.
