NATURAL HAZARD
Extreme heat (Arizona priority)
Excessive heat warnings, especially dangerous when combined with a power outage.
Official evacuation orders and immediate life-threatening hazards take priority over this guide. Call 911 in an emergency.
1WHAT TO VERIFY
- Check NWS Phoenix for Extreme Heat Warnings.
- Find open cooling centers through the Maricopa County Heat Relief Network.
2IMMEDIATE ACTIONS
- Stay indoors in air conditioning during peak heat (roughly 10am-6pm).
- Drink water regularly even if not thirsty.
- Never leave children or pets in vehicles.
3HOUSEHOLD SAFETY
- Know heat exhaustion signs: heavy sweating, weakness, nausea, dizziness, move to cool area, sip water.
- Heat stroke (confusion, hot skin, fainting) is a medical emergency, call 911.
- Check on seniors and neighbors living alone.
4COMMUNICATIONS
- Agree on check-in times for vulnerable family members.
5SUPPLIES
- Plan extra drinking water above the 1 gallon/person/day baseline.
- Cooling towels, battery fans, shade for pets, electrolyte drinks.
6SHELTER OR EVACUATION
- If your home loses cooling, go to a cooling center, library, mall or family with power.
7BUSINESS CONTINUITY
- Adjust outdoor work hours; provide water, shade and rest breaks for workers.
8RECOVERY
- Service A/C before summer; consider backup power for cooling.
OFFICIAL SOURCES
General educational guidance. Not a substitute for official instructions or professional medical advice.