NO ONE IS IMMUNE TO HEAT ILLNESS
Predictions are that Phoenix, indeed all of Arizona, will again break records with high temperatures this summer.
In the mid-2010s, Maricopa reported 60-180 heat deaths per year. 2020 had a 70% increase over 2019. The numbers grew every year since. 645 people suffered heat related deaths in Maricopa County in 2023.
There was good news in 2024! According to the preliminary report released in March, 2025, the number of deaths decreased. This is the first year over year decrease since 2014. 602 deaths is still heart breaking but we are moving in the right direction.
Education is key! Please share this email with friends, family and work colleagues.
What Is Heat Illness?
Heat-related illnesses are progressive, ranging from mild symptoms to life-threatening conditions.
- Heat cramps are the earliest sign of heat illness. These are hard, tense and painful muscle cramps of the hands, calves, feet, thighs or arms.
- Heat exhaustion can occur as a result of a rising internal temperature and dehydration. Signs of heat exhaustion include nausea, dizziness, muscle cramps, presyncope, headache, fatigue and heavy sweating.
- Heat stroke is a life-threatening medical emergency with a fatality rate of up to 71%. Therefore, it requires immediate medical attention and intervention.
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