PHOENIX – With the hottest temperatures of the year hitting Phoenix on Father’s Day weekend, officials are warning the public about the potentially dangerous desert heat.
The National Weather Service issued an extreme heat watch for Saturday morning through Monday evening, alerting Valley residents to the possibility of dangerously hot conditions.
The forecast calls for highs between 110 and 113 degrees each day of the extreme heat watch.
Hydration is important during extreme heat watch
Hydration is a key to keeping healthy when temperatures soar, and you shouldn’t wait until you go out to increase your fluid intake.
“If you know you’re going to be in the sun for the full day or the next day, start drinking plenty of water the night before,” Capt. Daniel “D.J.” Lee of the Phoenix Fire Department told KTAR News 92.3 FM’s Arizona’s Morning News on Friday.
Lee said sunscreen and proper clothing are important, too.
“When we say proper clothing, wear like hats. Don’t wear full coats or anything like that,” Lee said. “Some of that athletic wear that has that … (moisture-wicking) material is really good … because your body needs to sweat to cool itself down.”
Hikers should watch for signs of heat illness
Lee said to know your limits if you go hiking this weekend — and start early.
“Sometimes people go out there for some casual exercise or some people like to actually try to push themselves and see what they’re capable of doing,” he said. “All are great, but at the same time, we need to be a little bit more cautious of being prepared for Arizona heat, because it does creep up on you fast.”
It’s also important to recognize signs of heat illness and act quickly when you do. Headaches, dizziness and nausea are symptoms that shouldn’t be ignored. Another big warning sign is if you stop sweating.
“You probably should have turned around earlier, but those are definitely signs you’re probably going to want to start calling 911,” he said.
Additionally, Lee noted the importance of bringing a fully charged cellphone and a hiking companion if you hit the trails as temperatures are rising.
“Because if something does happen, you’re not going to be stuck out there alone and they can maybe help you get down,” he said.
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