With expected high temperatures between 108 and 113 degrees in Pima County this weekend, it is important for residents to take the necessary precautions to protect themselves, their families, and their pets from heat-related illness in the coming days. These temperatures are quite a contrast to the cooler-than-normal weather in May.
While extreme heat is common in June, such an abrupt arrival is rare. Usually hotter and hotter days arrive slowly and steadily, providing time for our bodies to adapt and for us to adjust our activities and schedules. Not the case this year, and without that “ramp up” we’ll all be at higher risk of heat illness.
Here are some tips to stay safe in extreme heat:
- Limit outdoor activities, including chores, to the cooler early morning hours. Finish up before 10 a.m.
- Spend the hottest time of the day (10 a.m. to 7 p.m.) indoors with air conditioning. Consider visiting a mall, a library, a museum, or a movie theater.
- Stay hydrated. Drink water before you get thirsty to prevent dehydration and help your body cope with the heat and dryness.
- Eat light, regular meals throughout the day.
- If your job is outdoors, remember to drink water, take breaks in the shade, and wear a wide-brimmed hat and loose, light-colored clothing.
- Never leave children, pets, or those requiring special care inside a parked car for even a minute.
- If you are taking psychiatric medication, avoid heat exposure. Such medicines increase the risk of heat stroke.
- Avoid alcohol and recreational drugs; they make heat illness worse.
- Check to see that neighbors, especially the elderly, have sufficient cooling and essential supplies.
- If you know of someone who is homeless and needs a place to cool off, refer them to one of these 2016 Summer Sun Respite Sites.
Find the latest weather forecast information from our partners at the National Weather Service.
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