Stay Safe in Arizona Heat
Arizona summers can bring extreme temperatures that may put your health at risk.
Hot weather can affect your health, especially if you have a chronic condition, take certain medications, are pregnant, are older, or spend time outdoors. Taking simple steps to stay cool, hydrated, and informed can help prevent heat-related illness and keep you and your family safe. This resource explains how heat can impact your body and provides simple tips to help you stay safe, including staying cool, drinking enough water, understanding air quality, and recognizing signs of heat-related illness. According to the CDC, heat can affect anyone, but some people are at higher risk, including older adults, young children, pregnant people, people with chronic health conditions, people who work outdoors, and those without reliable access to cooling. Learn how to protect yourself and your family during hot days and create a plan to stay healthy when temperatures rise.
Need Medical Advice?
If you have questions about heat-related illness or symptoms:
- Contact your primary care provider.
- Visit an urgent care center if needed.
- Call your health plan's Nurse Advice Line for guidance.
- Arizona Complete Health-Complete Care Plan Nurse Triage Line: 1-866-534-5963 (TTY/TDD 711)
If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 immediately.
Heat Safety Tips
Stay Hydrated
- Drink water throughout the day, even if you don't feel thirsty.
- Avoid drinks with alcohol, caffeine, or large amounts of sugar.
- Carry a water bottle when you're outside.
Stay Cool
- Spend time in air-conditioned places whenever possible.
- Visit cooling centers, libraries, malls, or community centers during extreme heat.
- Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing.
- Use sunscreen and wear a hat when outdoors.
Avoid the Hottest Part of the Day
- Limit outdoor activities between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.
- Take frequent breaks in the shade or indoors.
- Never leave children, older adults, or pets in a parked vehicle.
Check on Others
- Check on family members, neighbors, and friends who may be more vulnerable to heat.
- Make sure they have access to water, cooling, and needed medications.
Know the Warning Signs
Heat Exhaustion
Symptoms may include:
- Heavy sweating
- Weakness or tiredness
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Nausea or vomiting
- Cool, pale, or clammy skin
What to do: Move to a cooler place, drink water, loosen clothing, and seek medical attention if symptoms worsen.
Heat Stroke (Medical Emergency)
Symptoms may include:
- High body temperature
- Confusion
- Slurred speech
- Rapid pulse
- Hot, red skin
- Loss of consciousness
Call 911 immediately if you think someone is experiencing heat stroke.
Find Heat Relief Resources
Arizona Central Heat Resource Hub
One-stop statewide resource for:
- Cooling centers
- Hydration stations
- Respite centers
- Heat alerts
- Transportation resources
Statewide Cooling Center & Hydration Station Maps (ADHS)
Find locations across Arizona offering relief from extreme heat.
2-1-1 Arizona
Call 2-1-1 for free, confidential help finding:
- Cooling centers
- Transportation assistance
- Utility assistance
- Food and shelter resources
Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) Heat Safety
Access:
- Heat illness prevention tips
- Heat safety information
- Heat data and alerts
- Cooling center resources
Maricopa County Heat Relief Network
Resources for Maricopa County residents, including:
- Cooling centers
- Hydration stations
- Outreach services
Arizona Faith Network Heat Relief & Respite Centers
Faith-based organizations providing:
- Cooling spaces
- Hydration support
- Respite services
Centers for Disease Control
- Risk Factors
- Heat and Medications
- Patient Management
Who Is Most at Risk?
Some people can become sick from heat more quickly, including:
- Adults age 65 and older
- Infants and young children
- Pregnant people
- People with asthma, heart disease, diabetes, kidney disease, or other chronic conditions
- People with mental health conditions
- People taking certain medications
- People who work or exercise outdoors
- People experiencing homelessness or lacking access to cooling
Quick Reminder
Drink water. Stay cool. Check on others. Know the signs of heat illness.
Taking these simple steps can help you stay safe and healthy all summer long.