During the hot summer months in Arizona and in particular, The Boulders, you can take a number of precautions to prevent heat exhaustion and other heat-related illnesses.   What is heat exhaustion?  Heat exhaustion is the body’s response to dehydration and an excessive loss of water and salt through sweat and typically occurs after long periods of heat exposure. Heat exhaustion occurs when the body becomes overwhelmed by heat and the sweat response stops working properly.

Here are few simple tips to take when the temperatures outside starts to rise:

• Always wear light colored, loose fitting clothes – dark color, tight fitting clothes keeps the heat in and prevents your body from cooling down.
• Avoid sunburn - if you need to be exposed to the sun always apply a sunscreen (at least an SPR30) and wear a cap or large floppy hat that will keep the sun off your face and neck.  Having a sunburn will prevent your body from cooling off.
• Find an air conditioned building – if the heat starts to affect you, find an air conditioned building or store right away. This will help your body to cool down faster.
• Drink plenty of water – drinking water will keep your body hydrated and help it sweat to maintain normal body temperature.
• Check with your doctor if you are on medication that may make you more susceptible to heat exhaustion.  If you can’t reach your doctor check with your pharmacy or go on line and check all the side effects of your medications.
• Never stay in a parked car or get into your car if it’s been sitting in the sun. Car temperatures can reach more than 140 degrees in a matter of minutes. Always cool your car with the AC or open the windows to cool it down.  NEVER leave children or pets in a hot car.
• Limit exercise and strenuous work outside. If your job requires you to work outside remember to take plenty of breaks in the shade and drink plenty of water to keep your body hydrated. If you work outside everyday your body will eventually adapt to the heat.

The most common signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion include: nausea; dizziness; weakness; headache; pale, cool and moist skin; fast and weak pulse; disorientation; paleness; muscle cramps; tiredness; fainting

At the first signs of heat exhaustion, you should stop activity and cool the body by seeking shade, shelter or a cool room, and drinking cold fluids.  Seek medical attention immediately if symptoms are severe.   If you recognize the symptoms of heat exhaustion, take the following actions:

• Stop activities and rest
• Drink cool, non-alcoholic beverages
• Take a cool shower, or bath
• Move to an air-conditioned room
• Remove extra clothing

There are plenty of ways to avoid heat exhaustion while at The Boulders.  A few ideas include:

• Start your day EARLY.  During the hot summer months, the sun is up as early as 5:30am and that is the coolest time of the day.  Take your morning walk or run at this time.
• Exercise indoors!  The Golden Door Spa has a great fitness facility that will meet your complete exercise routine.  Fitness classes are also offered throughout the day.
• Schedule an early golf tee-time.  It’s ideal to finish your round of golf prior to the hottest time of the day.

During the hottest time of the day, enjoy indoor activities such as spa services and shopping.  If you are outdoors during this time, stay in the shade, use and re-use your SPF and find a pool to cool off in.  There are several pools at The Boulders to do just that!