Councilman Michael Johnson's
Arizona Informant Column

May 17, 2006

Deserts are beautiful, but can be dangerous

Living in Phoenix and the southwest U.S. in general offers many amenities.

The Valley of the Sun is located in the picturesque and vast Sonoran desert, providing a wide range of climates and landforms.

These features attract thousands of visitors each year. And although the desert is pleasant for much of the year, our weather can range from ice-cold temperatures in the winter to scorching heat in the summer.

Many of us love nothing more than heading out to the desert to enjoy its splendor and beauty.

But we have to take precautions, because by not doing so we put ourselves and our loved ones at risk of preventable tragedies.

The Phoenix Fire Department has already responded to nearly 100 heat-related emergencies this year. Annually in Arizona, statistics show that about 35 people will die and many others will require hospitalization from excess heat exposure.

That’s why officials want to remind people to enjoy the outdoors safely.

There are several critical things to remember while hiking our beautiful parks.

If you’re heading out to the desert, make sure your vehicle is in good repair and please notify a neighbor or relative of your plans.

Of course, bring plenty of fresh drinking water and warm clothing, and become familiar with a map of the area where you are traveling.

If you become lost, please stay put. Remain in your vehicle and carefully analyze the situation.

If possible, retrace your steps, but don’t try to take any shortcuts. Doing so may leave you wandering aimlessly, which only makes matters worse.

If you’re retracing your way back, walk slowly through the desert and avoid mid-day hiking.

Also, you can reduce your water loss by breathing through your nose as normal as possible and avoiding talking.

These are just a few tips and common sense approaches in case your desert travel goes awry. For more information on desert survival, call the Phoenix Fire Department at 602-262-6910.

We’re more than happy to help make your desert trip a pleasant and memorable one!

Michael Johnson is Councilman for Phoenix District 8. His office can be reached at 602-262-7493 or at michael.johnson@phoenix.gov via e-mail.