With COVID-19 closures limiting Arizonans’ options for exercise, more and more people are walking in their neighborhood and local parks.

Getting outside and exercising is more important than ever, but with record-breaking temperatures over the weekend and more in the forecast, the city of Buckeye shared some tips for preventing getting sick in the heat, the signs of heat-related illnesses and what to do if someone is showing symptoms.

Prevention

• Stay hydrated. Even if you aren’t thirsty, drinking water helps your body from dehydrating before, during and after your workout.
• Limit activity to morning and evening hours when temperatures are coolest
• Wear lightweight, light-colored loose-fitting clothing
• Pace yourself and know your limits
• Wear sunscreen

Signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion

• Heavy sweating
• Weakness
• Cool, pale, clammy skin
• Fast, weak pulse
• Possible muscle cramps
• Dizziness
• Nausea or vomiting
• Fainting

Signs and symptoms of heat stroke

• Altered mental state
• Throbbing headache, confusion, nausea,
  dizziness and/or shallow breathing
• Body temperature above 103°F
• Hot, red, dry or moist skin
• Rapid and strong pulse
• Faints, loses consciousness

Treatment

• Call 9-1-1 immediately
• Keep the person lying down
• Move the person to a cooler place
• Quickly cool the body with water and ice, if available
• Watch for signs of breathing problems

For more details on prevention, signs, symptoms and treatment, visit buckeyeaz.gov/heatsafety.