Every year, people in Arizona get sick and even die from heat-related illnesses.
Pima County is releasing tips on how to stay cool in those extreme temperatures.
Cool Down
Keep cool to avoid heat-related illness.
- Stay indoors during the hottest times of the day. Seek out air-conditioned locations, such as libraries or malls.
- Do not rely on a fan as your primary cooling device. Getting wet in the shower or bath, then sitting in front of the fan may make it more efficient, but taking advantage of air conditioning is your best bet.
- Take cool showers or baths.
- Avoid outdoor activities or limit them to the morning and evening hours. Avoid direct sunlight.
- If you do go outside, wear loose, light-colored clothing and use a shade hat or an umbrella to block the sun.
- Check on those most at-risk twice a day.
Drink Up
Drink a lot of fluid to replace what you lose through sweat, which is your body's way of cooling itself.
- Drink more water than usual.
- Don't wait until you're thirsty to drink fluids.
- Avoid alcohol, caffeinated beverages or liquids containing high amounts of sugar.
- Remind others to drink more water than usual.
Plan Ahead
Check the weather forecast and plan heat-safe activities when it's hot outside.
- Regularly check the Pima County Health Department website for updates and safety tips.
- Pace yourself, schedule breaks from outside activities, and seek out shade.
- Plan to eat many small meals and snacks rather than a few big meals.
- Learn the signs of heat illness. If you think someone has heat stroke, seek medical attention immediately and begin cooling that person.
