Many city pools will open to the public beginning Memorial Day Weekend, May 23-25, offering a place for residents to cool off and have fun (photo courtesy of City of Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department).
Phoenix has already seen record-high temperatures this year, with the Valley hitting above the 100-degree mark multiple days in March. And while there was a brief respite in April, the county confirmed the first heat-related death of the year on April 10. With the summer months on the horizon, the city of Phoenix is reminding residents and visitors to take extra precautions and offered these tips to help people stay safe.
First, check on your family and neighbors, especially older adults, young children and people with medical conditions. Also, hydrate early and often. Dink water throughout the day – don’t wait until you’re thirsty. If you are outdoors, the CDC recommends drinking 8 ounces of water every 15-20 minutes. Add electrolytes to balance your fluids.
For those who enjoy the outdoors, plan activities during lower temperatures, such as early mornings and late evenings. And don’t forget to dress for the weather – wear lightweight, loose-fitting, light‑colored clothing and a wide‑brim hat.
It also is important to know the signs of heat illness. For heat exhaustion, move to a cooler place and seek medical advice if symptoms don’t improve. Symptoms include dizziness or fainting, rapid or weak pulse and excessive sweating or feeling clammy. If someone is suffering from heat stroke, call 911 immediately. Symptoms include a body temperature that may be hot to the touch, no sweating, loss of consciousness and rapid, strong pulse.
Families who need to find ways to keep cool while entertaining kids over summer break may want to visit a city pool. The Parks and Recreation Department will open 16 pools all season long and an additional two pools, one in June and one in July, for a total of 18 pools this summer. Many will open beginning Memorial Day Weekend, May 23-25, including Sunnyslope and Washington pools. Find a pool near you at www.phoenix.gov/pools.
Finally, as always, the Phoenix Public Library system provides safe, cool spaces for residents to step out of the heat and find entertainment and enrichment opportunities during operating hours. The Cholla Library, 10050 N. Metro Parkway East, will also once again serve as a cooling center, offering extended hours until 9 p.m. Monday-Saturday and noon-9 p.m. on Sundays and holidays. This location will offer full library services during extended hours.
For more information, resources and updates, visit www.phoenix.gov/summer.
