Heat-Related Deaths

The one thing ALL visitors need to know prior to visiting the Southwest

➡️ Today’s Southwest Travel Tip — As the weather starts to warm up, it’s important to talk about — Safe Recreation in the Heat 🥵

♻️ The National Weather Service statistical data shows that heat causes more fatalities per year than floods, lightning, tornadoes, and hurricanes combined.

🩺 As a medical professional who serves the desert southwest, I can confirm we see multiple patients per year who fall victim.

This spring is already heating up around the desert southwest. Recognize the symptoms of heat-related illnesses to stay safe:

♨️ Heat Exhaustion:
• Dizziness, fainting
• Intense thirst
• Excessive sweating
• Rapid, weak pulse
• Nausea, vomiting
• Pale, cold, clammy skin
• Muscle cramps, fatigue
• FIRST AID — Move to a cooler place, Drink water (if able, Take a cold shower, Use cold compresses

♨️ Heat Stroke: THIS IS A MEDICAL EMERGENCY
• Headache, confusion
• Elevated body temperature
• No sweating
• Rapid, strong pulse
• Nausea, vomiting
• Red hot skin
• May lose consciousness
• FIRST AID — Call emergency service and take immediate action to cool the person

💡 As the weather starts to heat up, remember these simple tips to stay safe:
1️⃣ Drink plenty of water + electrolytes throughout the day to stay hydrated: A general rule of thumb is 1 liter of water every 2 hours, however, this applies to moderate hikes in moderate temps. When our temperatures feel like Hades, you can easily lose 1-2 liters PER HOUR in sweat, and therefore fluid requirements will increase.
2️⃣ To avoid hyponatremia (low sodium) consume fluids + food that contain sodium — think salty snacks
3️⃣ Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, and breathable clothing.
4️⃣ Limit time outdoors during the hottest parts of the day — hike early or late in the day.

Best hikes in Utah | Zion National Park | Summer recreation in the desert | Things to do in Moab | Heat Safety #visitmoab #mightyfive #findyourpark