As Arizona students return to school amidst soaring temperatures, the state braces for a week of extreme heat. Maricopa, Pima, and Yuma counties are expected to experience temperatures reaching up to 118 degrees, prompting the National Weather Service to issue extreme heat warnings.
Despite the commonly referenced “dry heat” of the region, the Arizona Department of Health Services is emphasizing the potential dangers of such high temperatures. They are encouraging schools, parents, and students to implement safety measures to mitigate the risks associated with the heat.
Among the advised precautions are relocating outdoor activities to air-conditioned areas, ensuring regular hydration breaks, and urging students to inform teachers or friends if they feel overheated.
Teachers are also advised to remain vigilant for symptoms of heat-related illnesses, including dizziness, muscle cramps, nausea, headaches, and confusion.
For staff members involved in outdoor duties such as pick-up and drop-off, protective measures like wearing hats, sunglasses, and applying sunscreen are recommended.
Guidance from the Arizona Department of Health Services
Stay Cool
- Conduct outdoor activities in air-conditioned environments when possible.
- If indoor activities are not feasible, reschedule them to cooler parts of the day.
- Maximize shade for any necessary outdoor activities.
- Encourage loose, lightweight, and light-colored clothing for children.
- Gradually increase activity intensity to help children acclimate to heat.
Stay Hydrated
- Offer regular hydration breaks before, during, and after outdoor activities (8 gulps of water recommended every 15 minutes).
Stay Informed
- Plan outdoor activities based on temperature, air quality, and UV index forecasts.
- Check the NWS HeatRisk map for localized heat warnings.
- Monitor children and others for heat illness symptoms frequently.
Stay Connected
- Encourage children to report any discomfort due to heat to an adult.
- Advocate for the buddy system and maintaining visibility when playing outdoors.
Be SunWise
- Promote the use of hats, sunglasses, and lightweight clothing among staff and students.
- Advocate for applying and reapplying SPF 30+ sunscreen during outdoor activities.
Resources for Arizona Schools
- Explore the ASU HeatReadyTM Schools Program for resources like heat stress training and curriculum materials.
- To become a HeatReady School, contact [email protected].
For managing extreme heat, visit the Managing Extreme Heat Recommendations for Schools document for guidelines tailored to K-12 students.
The Arizona SunWise Skin Cancer Prevention School Program offers sun safety education. Access free materials and activities at azdhs.gov/SunWise.
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