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A Guide to Heat Safety in Arizona
Extreme heat conditions pose a significant public health threat, especially for older adults.
Extreme heat conditions pose a significant public health threat, especially for older adults.
Preventing and Treating Heat-Related Illnesses
According to the Arizona Department of Health Services, to mitigate the risks of heat-related illnesses, it is crucial to:
- Drink plenty of water.
- Stay indoors during the hottest part of the day. If your home is not air-conditioned, visit public cooling centers.
- Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing, and protect yourself from the sun.
- Check on friends, family, and neighbors, especially those at higher risk of heat-related illnesses.
- Keep up-to-date with the latest weather forecasts and heat advisories.
Exposure to extreme heat can lead to dangerous and potentially life-threatening illnesses. Symptoms of these conditions may include high body temperature, rapid pulse, nausea, and/or fainting. Recognizing symptoms early is critical. Seek medical attention immediately, by calling 9-1-1 or your local emergency number, and take steps to cool down, including moving to a cooler location, lying down, applying cool, wet cloths to the body, and sipping water.
Resources for Managing the Heat in Arizona
Cooling Centers/Hydration Stations:
The AZ Department of Health Services created an interactive map of cooling centers, hydration stations, and collection/donation sites across the state.
For assistance finding a cooling center or hydration station in your area, contact your local Area Agency on Aging (Phone: 888-264-2258) or Arizona 2-1-1 (Phone: 2-1-1).
Utility Assistance:
There are programs available to assist you with paying your utilities, such as Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) or local utility company assistance programs. Contact your utility company as soon as possible if you anticipate needing assistance. And, remember, according to the Arizona Corporation Commission, “regulated electric utilities are forbidden from disconnecting customers due to late payment, non‐payment, or accumulated debt during extreme weather conditions.”
Air Conditioning Repairs:
If your air conditioner needs repairs, contact Arizona 211 for a list of low-cost and free repair services available.
Tenant Rights:
According to Arizona 211, under Arizona law, landlords are required to maintain air conditioning and cooling units. If your landlord fails to make repairs within ten days of receiving written notice, landlord-tenant laws may provide other protections.
For statewide assistance, you may contact:
- Area Agency on Aging (888-264-2258 toll-free)
- Arizona 2-1-1 (2-1-1; 877-211-8661 toll-free)
Additional Information and Resources:
- Arizona Department of Health Services
- HEAT.AZ.gov
- Heat Relief Network
- Pima County Resources
- Maricopa County Resources
We hope these resources will help you stay safer during this excessive heat warning. Remember, if you or someone you know experiences symptoms of a heat-related illness, seek medical attention immediately.
