Summer Safety in Phoenix

By Meg Brunson

We want you to get out-and-about with your kids as often as possible, but staying safe is even more important than having fun.  It's important to remember some basic safeguards during the summer months when we can see extreme temperature conditions in and around Phoenix.  Know these tips & tricks for staying safe, and plan your outings accordingly.  

Stay safe in the sun & heat:

• Limit exposure to the sun: Avoid being outside between 10am-4pm, and take frequent breaks if you are outside during those times.  Those are the hours when the sun is the hottest.  If you plan to participate in outdoor activities, aim for early morning or evenings to be safe.
• Lots of WATER: Always keep water with you and pack extra water in the car in case of emergencies.
• Sunscreen: Put on sunscreen every morning before getting dressed - it’s a good habit to start!  Keep sunscreen with you at all times so that you can reapply as necessary.
• Stay Cool: Escape the heat into air conditioned spaces to cool off.
• Choose appropriate clothing: Wear light-colored clothing to reflect the sun and hats to protect your face.
• Take it slow: Do not overexert yourself when it is hot.  Reserve hiking, biking, running, and other strenuous outdoor activities for the early morning or evenings.
• Shoes are a must: Kids (and grownups) should always wear shoes outside to avoid burning their feet on the hot concrete.
• In the Car: Be careful of hot buckles and car seats.  If you can park in the shade, it’s advised. 
• Look for signs of heat-related illness(heat cramps, exhaustion, and heat stroke):
  • • • Muscle spasms or cramps
      • Cold sweat
      • Extreme fatigue
      • Flushed cheeks
      • Nausea, headache, upset stomach or vomiting, and dizziness
      • Hot, dry red skin, dizziness, and confusion
      • Rapid weak pulse
      • Rapid shallow breathing

Stay safe around water:

• Constantly supervise children. Assign a designated child watcher and schedule 30-minute increments in which one adult is on duty. Make sure everyone knows who is responsible for watching kids around the pool.
• Learn CPR. Take CPR training. Post CPR steps on the refrigerator as a reminder.
• Floaties: Have non-swimmers wear personal flotation devices.
• Pool Fences: Ensure there is a barrier around your pool that is intact and at least 5 feet high.  Learn more about Arizona pool fence regulations at www.azleg.state.az.us.
• Beware of other standing water sources: Keep toilet lids closed, and buckets and pails empty.
• Phone: Keep a telephone outside by the pool.
• No running: Forbid running around the pool.