OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) – As Memorial Day approaches and temperatures rise, EMSA is sharing safety tips to prevent drowning incidents and heat-related illness.

Residents may look to visit a lake or pool this holiday. EMSA is reminding residents to look for these signs of drowning:

• A drowning person will be struggling for air, so they will not be able to scream for help or alert you. 
• A person’s head may be tilted back with their mouth open. 
• A person’s head may be low in the water with their mouth at water level. 
• The person’s eyes may be closed, glossy, or appear to be staring off into space. 
• A drowning person may be vertical in the water and appear to be trying to climb an invisible ladder.  

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According to EMSA, paramedics have already responded to multiple heat-related illness calls this spring. As the weather gets warmer, here are some heat safety tips to remember:

• 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. 

Learn more about weather-related safety tips at emsaok.gov.