Top 10 Tips for Surviving a Phoenix Summer

Summers in Phoenix last, on average, four or five months, and temperatures hover in the triple-digits for most of those days. It's tempting to spend that time hibernating in your air-conditioned home, counting the minutes until the first cool front arrives, but there are better ways to survive a Phoenix summer.

1. Find a Pool

There are lots of community and neighborhood pools in Phoenix, some of which are open to the public. Hit the pool in the evenings after work for a few laps of cool, refreshing exercise, or take the whole family for open swim during the hottest part of the afternoon.

2. Check Out Splash Parks

In addition to pools, Phoenix has also built numerous splash parks. These zero-depth water features have fountains and spray pads that can keep kids occupied for hours. They are usually shaded by pergolas or awnings, and let's face it, adults probably wouldn't mind splashing around for a bit as well.

3. Plan Outings Carefully

Just because a Phoenix summer is sweltering doesn't mean you can't get outside. Just plan each outing around pit stops where you can cool off and re-hydrate yourself. If you're going hiking, for example, map out areas where you can pause under the shade of a copse of trees and get a drink and a snack. Or, if you need to do some shopping, try malls and strip centers where there isn't much walking outside.

4. Keep a Summer Bag Handy

Fill it with light, low-calorie snacks, bottled water, sunscreen, and hats you can use to keep the sun off your face. If you take this bag with you every time you leave the house, you'll be prepared to fend off dehydration and loss of electrolytes.

5. Take It Slow

If you aren't used to Phoenix summer heat, or if you don't tolerate heat well, try not to push yourself. Plan short outings that provide access to air-conditioning and plenty of liquids so you don't risk heat illness. If you have an event you want to attend that will keep you outside for a long period of time, start working up to that as early as possible.

6. Travel in Packs

Not only does the buddy system protect you from criminal types, but it can also help you survive a Phoenix summer. When you've got friends or family with you, you can all help each other. Your companions will be more likely to notice signs of heat illness and can help you get to a safe place if an emergency presents itself.

7. Take Cool Showers

Not so cold that you're shivering in the shower stall, but cool enough to lower your body temperature. This is helpful after you spend an afternoon outside playing with the kids or working in your yard. You can also take an unorthodox shower outside, if necessary, with a hose or spigot.

8. Keep Dry

A Phoenix summer is both hot and dry, which means that sweat will dry more quickly than in a humid climate. Nevertheless, you aren't going to spend any time outside without getting a bit sweaty, which can lead to heat rash. Wear loose clothing, take time to cool and dry off, and dry yourself thoroughly after bathing.

9. Don't Rely on Fans

Fans do not produce cold air, they simply create a breeze. Consequently, fans will not prevent heat-related illnesses or cool your body sufficiently if you've become overheated. Air-conditioning is much more effective, and it's a good idea to combine A/C with cool showers, as mentioned above.

10. Drink Regardless of Thirst

Often, when you're outside in a Phoenix summer, your body doesn't tell you that you're thirsty. In fact, the idea of putting anything in your stomach, even liquids, might seem repulsive. Nevertheless, it is essential to stay hydrated, so force yourself to consume liquids at regular intervals.

Source:

Extreme Heat Prevention Guide, CDC