EMSA issues first heat warning for 2024

Emergency Services Authority. Image: KFOR.

OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) – Get ready, Oklahoma!

“It’s going to be hot,” said Kim Querry of EMSA.

EMSA issued a heat alert on Thursday after responding to five calls for suspected heat-related illnesses. Two people were taken to hospital.

“Maybe you go to a softball game or do some outdoor activity and you’re completely caught off guard because you haven’t drunk enough water and you’re not used to these high temperatures,” Querry said.

EMSA warns Oklahoma residents that the extreme heat can lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Here are the symptoms to look out for:

The good news: It is completely preventable.

“We want everyone to take precautions,” Querry said.

Christina Stewart said she was being especially cautious because she had previously suffered from skin cancer.

“Hat, SPF shirt, long pants, sunscreen, lots of sunscreen on my face and exposed areas,” Stewart said.

EMSA also recommends taking breaks in the shade, checking on your neighbors and, most importantly, drinking plenty of fluids.

According to EMSA, the heat warning is valid at least until Sunday.