If you can’t take the heat, get out of the kitchen – and Arizona, among other Western states.
With the official start of summer just around the corner, things are starting to heat up. Going into this weekend, temperatures in several areas are expected to exceed 110 degrees.
In fact, temperatures in Phoenix this weekend will hit 118 degrees, a record high for this time of year. On Monday, they’ll hit 119.
KNXV reports, “Locations below 4,000 feet across northern Arizona will reach between 110-116 degrees with western Arizona hitting between 115-120 degrees Sunday through Wednesday.”
Meanwhile, temperatures in Las Vegas will be hovering around 110 at their hottest, while highs in New Mexico flirt with 100 degrees.
But it’s when we reach an excessive heat warning, like much of Arizona this weekend, that we need to take extra care of ourselves and our loved ones.
Here are some tips on how to practice hot weather safety:
- Prevent hot car deaths by looking before you lock – That means making sure you’re not leaving any kids or pets behind. The temperature inside your car can quickly become deadly, even if the conditions outside aren’t so bad. According to the National Weather Service, a vehicle's temperature could soar from 80 degrees to 109 degrees just within 20 minutes.
- Don’t overdo it with outdoor activities – If you have to go outside during an excessive heat warning, limit your time out to morning and evening hours.
- Drink lots of fluids – Regardless of your activity level, don’t forgot to hydrate, and don’t wait until you’re thirsty to do so. Either water or sports beverages, which can replace the salt and minerals you lose in sweat, are recommended, according to the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention.
- Be smart with your choice of clothing – Try to wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing. Wearing something light and breezy does wonders for how you might feel in the heat otherwise.
- Protect yourself from the sun – Wear a wide-brimmed hat, such as a visor or fedora. Protect your eyes with sunglasses, and don’t forget that much-needed sunscreen (SPF15 or higher) to protect your skin.
More precautions should be taken in certain circumstances, of course, such as young children or those aged 65 or older.
Those who are physically ill, especially with heart disease or high blood pressure, should also take further precautions, the CDC advises.
