Summer in Arizona has been scorching, with record temperatures throughout the state. Phoenix has been hit particularly hard, with several days of temperatures over 110F. As expected, there have been higher than normal instances of Phoenix heat injuries as a result of the high temperatures. To help you and your family avoid Phoenix heat injuries, the personal injury lawyers at Lerner and Rowe have put together some valuable safety tips.
Prepare for the Phoenix Heat
Most heat illnesses, such as heat exhaustion, heatstroke, and dehydration, can be avoided with proper safety precautions. These precautions are especially important for children and elderly people that cannot care for themselves and are more susceptible to burn injuries. To prepare for intense summer heat, be sure to always:
- Check the Weather Forecast: The National Weather Services (NWS) offers fantastic information on the weather. For Phoenix heat injuries, be sure to note the temperature and sunlight intensity. The service is also useful for other Phoenix summer occurrences, such as monsoons and wildfires.
- Stay Hydrated: A combination of an arid Phoenix climate and high temperatures means that water leaves your body faster than normal. Be sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day and bring water with you anywhere you go. Constant hydration will help you stay cool, comfortable, and safe.
- Wear Light Clothing: Wearing lightweight fabrics in high temperatures is a must. Cotton clothing is more breathable and can help you stay cool. However, heavy sweaters should opt for polyester, which is better at wicking, helps your clothing stay light, and helps you stay comfortable.
- Wear Sunscreen: In addition to protecting your skin from cancer and premature aging in the long term, sunscreen helps you avoid sunburn in the short term. Sunburn can have numerous physiological effects in addition to pain on the affected area. It only takes a few minutes to apply to avoid weeks of pain.
Symptoms of Phoenix Heat Illness
Unfortunately, not everyone will take the necessary precautions to avoid heat illnesses. This is why it’s important to know the signs associated with dehydration and sunstroke. If you’ve been out in the heat and sun, be sure to check that your family and friends aren’t suffering from:
- Skin redness
- Headaches
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Increased breathing and heart rates
- Confusion
- Slurred speech
If you notice any of these signs then seek medical attention immediately.
Contact a Phoenix Heat Injuries Lawyer
Lerner and Rowe hopes that you and your family follow the safety tips above to stay safe this summer. Unfortunately, some Phoenix heat injuries can be caused by the negligence or recklessness of another party. If you suspect that your heat illness was caused in such a fashion then contact us for a free consultation so that we can explore your options.
Lerner and Rowe is available to help you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. In addition to providing exceptional legal service, our team is dedicated to helping clients shoulder the burden of their injuries so that they can focus on their health. Give us a call today at 602-977-1900 or connect with one of our LiveChat representatives online.