As Weather Heats Up Phoenix Fire Department Remind Hikers to Stay Safe

This week, the weather forecast is predicting the valley will see high 90 temperatures and the Phoenix Fire Department is reminding all to stay safe if you are plan to be outdoors.

Over the years, the Phoenix Fire Department have been called out to favorite hiking locations with the need to rescue hikers who have had medical emergencies. The danger and stress that multiple calls in the heat of summer puts on the fire crews have become concerning.

In the summer of 2021, the Phoenix’s Parks and Recreation department instituted a pilot program in an effort to reduce the number of rescues. The perimeters of the program instituted was on days the National Weather Service issues an Excessive Heat Warning or if temperatures reach at least 105 degrees, Camelback’s Echo and Cholla trails and Pietwesa peak will close access to hikers from 11 a.m. until 5 p.m.

The trails saw hikers coming out after 7 p.m. when the valley weather has cooled down. City officials also extended parking lots hours until 9 p.m. on those days.

Hiking Safety Tips
Plan accordingly plan accordingly
Have a charged cell phone
Bring bottled water
Inform someone where exactly you will be
Wear the proper footwear
Wear sunscreen

If you plan to bring your dog with you on the hike, animal experts says it is unsafe for pets to be outdoors when temps are in the 90s. City officials also do not allow dogs on hiking trails when temps hit 100 degrees or warmer.