We all know that summer in the desert brings high temperatures, but what many of us forget is that our heat can be deadly. From June to September the state of Arizona and specifically Maricopa County experiences deceptively dangerous temperatures. Because it is not like a blizzard, where one can look outside and see the severity of the weather, many Arizonans are often unprepared to deal with our heat.
Heat is the single most dangerous natural phenomenon in Arizona. Each year, between 30 and 50 residents die from excessive exposure to heat.
Know the heat ALERTS
Heat Advisory
Heat Watch
Heat Warning
Find HELP
Agencies around the Valley have teamed up to provide resources for those in need:
Do your PART
Is your neighbor's window open and its 115 degrees outside? This is a sure sign that there may be a problem with the air conditioning. On those excessive heat warning days, check on neighbors that tend to stay inside or those that may be on fixed incomes and might skimp on air conditioning.
Every city/town has social service agencies to help those in need. If your neighbor is in a difficult situation or if you notice a homeless person who may be in danger due to the heat, call your city/town or Community Information and Referral at 877-764-2670 or http://www.cir.org/.
Follow us on Twitter and we will tweet a reminder when it's going to be dangerously hot so you can check on those around you and take extra steps to keep yourself safe. Also, like us on Facebook to receive these updates right to your news feed.