Heat alert set to expire this week as temps are forecast to drop, says EMSA

OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) -  EMSA officials announced on Monday, due to a drop in forecasted temperatures this upcoming weekend, the EMSA Medical Heat Alert will likely expire on Friday, July 5.

According to EMSA, since the alert was issued on June 23, medics responded to thirty-six heat-related illness calls and transported twenty-seven patients to hospitals locally.

This is a reminder that extreme heat during the summer months can lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Remember to stay hydrated and to take breaks in the shade when outside for periods at a time.

Here are some tips to follow according to EMSA to stay protected during the summer heat:

• 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.

Oklahoma City’s weather is expected to be more mild as temperatures drop into the 80s through Thursday.

Heat Safety Tips:

• Drink plenty of water or electrolyte replacement drinks several hours before being out in the summer heat
• Wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing and a wide brimmed hat if working outdoors
• Take plenty of breaks in the shade
• No alcohol or caffeine
• If you do not have air conditioning, find a cooling station or public area with air conditioning during the day
• Don’t limit your air conditioning use
• Use the buddy system if working outdoors
• Check on elderly neighbors
• Keep a cell phone on you at all times when outdoors

For more information on what's happening at EMSA, click here.