Despite cooler weather, Phoenix Fire encouraging residents to hike smart
Oct 9, 2018, 11:39 AM
(Photo by Take a Hike Arizona via flickr/Creative Commons)
(Photo by Take a Hike Arizona via flickr/Creative Commons)
PHOENIX — With a chance of rain in the forecast, people across Phoenix are likely looking at the cooler temperatures as a sign to take a hike this weekend.
But Capt. Jake Van Hook with the Phoenix Fire Department told KTAR News 92.3 FM that first responders are encouraging hikers to be prepared when they hit the trails.
“Because the weather is a little cooler, it does offer the opportunity for more people to get out on the trails and enjoy our Phoenix mountain preserves,” Van Hook said.
“Certainly we encourage that — lots of fun to be had out there — but at the same time, we do want to remind folks that even if there’s a bit cooler weather, it is still necessary to hydrate, to dress appropriately,” he added.
“Make sure you’re covering areas of the skin from the sun so you’re not getting overheated. Even though it’s a little cooler, you can still get some of the exposure effects, like heat-related illnesses.”
According to The Weather Channel, there is a 40 percent chance of rain in Phoenix Thursday night, with a 50 percent chance on Friday. High temperatures were also expected to range from the high 70s to the low 80s over the weekend.
Van Hook said despite the cooler temperatures, hikers need to take precautions before taking to the trails.
“It’s important to remember as you hike, no matter what the temperature is, your body is expending energy, you got to pre-hydrate,” he said.
“People think about hiking and outdoor activities as something you want to bring a bottle of water for when you get thirsty, but the truth of the matter is, to stay safe, you really want to prepare for that activity by pre-hydrating,” he added.
“If you’re waiting until the point where you get thirsty to hydrate, you’re actually behind the curve at that point.”
Van Hook also said that hikers should consider staying on trails and turning around once they have reached the halfway point in their water supply, even if they have not made it to the top.
“Be honest with yourself about what you can take on,” he said. “Not even hike has to result in getting to the summit.”
KTAR News 92.3 FM’s Kathy Cline contributed to this report.
