It’s a scorcher every summer in Southwest Oklahoma, which is why it’s so important to stay safe when temperatures climb.
The region is home to some of the most scenic places on Earth, like the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge and Quartz Mountain State Park. While beautiful, they can be very dangerous in the summer months.
Antony Nottingham, an EMT with Memorial Health, learned that firsthand during a rescue.
“I didn’t realize it was that serious until I went on a 7-hour hike myself to rescue somebody,” he said. “That was the closest I ever got to feeling sick from the heat.”
It may be tempting to go outside when it’s this sunny, but it’s important to stay safe.
First responders with Memorial Health say they see many heat-related ailments every summer. This is especially true for vulnerable groups, like kids and elderly adults.
Heat exhaustion, heat stroke and dehydration are not uncommon.
Dr. Johnathan Tadlock, a resident with Memorial Health, said heat-related illnesses can come with some scary consequences if you aren’t careful.
“Organ damage,” he said. “All different kinds of things can be messed up, not just their mental status. They can have worsening renal function.”
Try to stay in the shade as much as possible when outside and travel with others.
Abigail Oberle, an advanced EMT with Memorial Health, stresses people should also get their electrolytes in and hydrate.
“You got to stay hydrated,” she said. “Get your electrolytes, be sipping on water throughout the day before you go out anywhere like hiking, hydrate the day before, just be mindful and sip on water and electrolytes all day long.”
Heat-related illnesses and injuries can be sneaky. Robin Yeargin, a paramedic with Memorial Health, told us when it’s time to call for help.
“With heat exhaustion, a lot of the time you’re going to experience abdominal cramping,” she said. “You’re cramping in your legs and stuff. If that persists for more than an hour, you should call 911 or seek help.”
This advice isn’t just limited to outdoor activities, either.
Be sure to watch out indoors, too. Homes and cars can get very hot without air conditioning.
Also, limit the amount of alcohol you drink; it can increase your risk of getting a heat-related illness.
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