02-06-2025
EMSA releases first heat alert of 2025 for OKC
OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) – It's getting warmer outside as the summer months roll around. It got hot enough over the past weekend for EMSA to issue their first heat alert of the year for Oklahoma City Monday morning.
EMSA is now urging caution to people spending long amounts of time outside as future rain can cause even more humidity later on.
'It is time to be prepared,' EMSA paramedic Tori Thompson said.
'Prepared' is the key word with the newest heat alert.
'Let's be proactive and not reactive,' Thompson said.
EMSA crews responded to 7 heat related illness calls on Sunday alone. Three of those patients went to the hospital. Those numbers don't include what Thompson said she's seen at the Women's College World Series.
'I've been out there the last few days and we have had an extreme number of heat related illnesses out there,' Thompson said. 'The humidity is really taking a toll.'
To keep yourself right side up and out of one of EMSA's gurney's, hydration should be a number one priority.
'Let's start hydrating days before we know we're going to be outside for an extended amount of time,' Thompson said.
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While outside, take breaks consistently, remember to wear light colored and loose fitting clothing and make sure you can find shade when you need it. If you have to, bring blankets to create that shade and don't forget to wear sunscreen.
'Don't leave anyone in a hot vehicle,' Thompson said. 'Make sure your pets have water. Don't leave them out for extended amount of time. That affects them just as it does us.'
According to Thompson, this is about the time of year they normally send their first alert out. It may take some time to get acclimated, but if you prepare properly it can save your life.
Don't drink too much alcohol or caffiene either. Now is also a good time to consistently check in on elderly neighbors to make sure they're doing OK.
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