Surviving the Southwest Heat - Enjoy a Desert Vacation Safely

Each year, American families flock to the Southwest for summer vacation. The desert is home to many of America's great natural treasures, from the Grand Canyon to Monument Valley. Visitors also head west in search of remnants of the Wild West, such as ghost towns and old mining camps. But before you pack your car and drive off into the sunset, you'll want to be prepared for the sweltering heat. Arizona visitors and residents are three to seven times more likely to die from heat related causes than the rest of the country, according to the Center for Disease Control. Gathered from my own experience as a desert dweller, these tips are designed to maximize fun and minimize risk.

Drink Water

Let me say that again - drink water. This seems obvious, but many people (even long-time desert residents) fail to hydrate themselves. If you're thirsty, then you are already dehydrated, so don't wait until then. One thing many people don't realize is that headaches can be symptomatic of dehydration. If you are in an arid place and feel one coming on, down a bottle of water before popping a painkiller. Other symptoms of dehydration include dizziness and nausea. Be sure to drink primarily water, juice or sports drinks, as the diuretic effects of caffeine and alcohol will only serve to worsen the problem.

Seek Shade

Again, while this seems obvious, many visitors come from areas where shade is useless. In places that are hot and humid, like Houston or New Orleans, the temperature is generally the same whether you're under a tree or basking in the sun. In drier areas, the air lacks heat-retaining moisture, so the temperature in the shade is often several degrees cooler than in the sun. When walking, choose the side of the path with the most trees or overhanging buildings. Those who care about comfort more than style may even consider carrying a parasol.

Be an Early Bird

Those who insist on sleeping until noon will have a tough time with hiking or other outdoor activities. In the summer, it's often advisable to wake up at sunrise or even earlier. In a dry climate without cloud cover, the heat of the day can escape the atmosphere at night, causing temperatures up to 30 degrees cooler than in the afternoon. Hike at dawn, and then take a nap after lunch. The temperature should be tolerable again by dinner.

Cover Up

This tip seems counterintuitive. When faced with extreme heat, most people want to wear as little clothing as possible. While tank tops and short shorts may initially seem more comfortable, it's actually a better idea to cover up with light-colored lightweight natural fabrics. Clothes are the best defense against sunburn (and ultimately skin cancer). What may surprise you is that lightweight cotton clothes can actually be more comfortable. Middle Easterners have long known this - light colors can reflect the sun, and if the clothing is loose enough, create a shade area around your body. In addition, fabrics such as cotton can pull perspiration away from your skin, which also increases comfort.

In those situations where you have to show a little more skin (such as when swimming) you can still prevent sun damage to your skin by using sun block - at least SPF 30. Follow the directions on the package, including the annoying part about staying indoors for half an hour before going out. Don't forget to reapply often, as sweat and water can wash of even the best brands.

Moisturize

This tip isn't so much about staying alive as staying comfortable. Left alone, your skin will start splitting, cracking and bleeding in ways you never thought possible. Make sure to use lotion all over your body, and to carry lip balm everywhere. Don't neglect your feet and hands - often Vaseline is the best option for these areas.

The Southwestern region of the United States is a place of beauty and danger. Alongside blooming saguaros live scorpions, snakes and other dangerous creatures. However, the greatest danger of all is not something that people have nightmares about - it is the sun. Luckily, armed with the right knowledge, you can stay safe and comfortable while still enjoying the desert's unique beauty.