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Yahoo
6 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
How hot is too hot to hike? How to stay safe when hiking in Phoenix this summer
Summertime in Phoenix means taking extra precautions when outdoors, as temperatures can soar upwards of 110 degrees. This is especially true if you're planning on going for a hike. In 2021, the Parks and Recreation Board of Phoenix established the Trail Heat Safety Program to 'help bikers, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts navigate the beautiful Phoenix trail system while minimizing the risks of extreme heat to trail users and first responders,' according to its website. By 2024, the program expanded to include all trails at South Mountain Park and Preserve. They also approved trail closures an hour earlier, and starting on March 27, 2025, certain restrictions will be put on trails during Extreme Heat Warnings from the National Weather Service. According to Phoenix, more than 200 hikers are rescued annually from desert and mountain parks and preserves. Here's what to know about how hot is too hot to hike in Phoenix and other safety tips to keep in mind this summer. According to which is a part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, extreme heat is a period of time with high heat, humidity and temperatures above 90 degrees for at least two to three days. 'In extreme heat your body works extra hard to maintain a normal temperature, which can lead to death,' the website states. 'Extreme heat is responsible for the highest number of annual deaths among all weather-related hazards.' Extreme heat raises the risk of heat-related incidents but also brings challenges to first responders during mountain rescues. Symptoms of heat exhaustion include heavy sweating, paleness, muscle cramps, tiredness, weakness, fast or weak pulse, dizziness, headache, fainting, nausea and vomiting. With heat cramps, you may experience muscle pains or spasms in the stomach, arms or legs. According to if you have signs of heat cramps or heat exhaustion, you should go to a cooler location, remove excess clothing and take sips of sports drinks or water. It's important to call your health care provider if symptoms get worse or last more than an hour. There are a few important factors to consider when hiking with your dog, according to PetMD: Consider your dog's breed, age and overall health before going on the hike. Some dogs can handle longer hikes and challenging trails while others can only handle shorter, low-impact hikes. Keep an eye on your dog for signs of overexertion or exhaustion, including excessive panting, struggling to keep up and a lack of interest in continuing. Research the trail beforehand as parts of the path may be unsafe or especially slippery during some conditions. It's important to be cautious when hiking during hot weather. Don't overexert your dog; plan your activities during the cooler parts of the day and opt for shaded trails. Prevent dehydration and overheating by taking regular rest breaks and providing ample water and shade. Use cooling vests or bandanas specifically designed for dogs to help lower their body temperature during outdoor activities. Use dog booties or paw wax to protect your dog's paws from rough terrain, sharp objects or extreme temperature and other irritants. Dogs are more susceptible to heatstroke than humans, if you're hot then they're very hot. Older dogs or brachycephalic breeds like boxers, bulldogs and pugs are at a higher risk of overheating. Yes, you can hike in Phoenix during the summer but make sure to do it the right way with tips from the City of Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department: Watch the weather. Although Arizona is known for having dry heat, it can still be deceiving and deadly. Hike when it's cool outside or try going during early mornings or evenings when there's more shade. Dress appropriately. Make sure to wear proper shoes, clothing, a hat and sunscreen. Bring water and hydrate before you go. Remember to bring more than you think you need and head back before you drink all of your water. Carry a mobile phone with you. Hike with others, if alone, tell someone your start and end times and location. Don't push yourself if you have a medical condition. Stay on designated trails. Overall, make sure to be prepared and don't ignore safety guidelines. Certain trails are also restricted from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. when the weather issues an extreme heat warning. This includes: Camelback Mountain Preserve – Echo Canyon and Cholla Trail Phoenix Mountains Preserve – The Piestewa Peak Summit trail and associated trails South Mountain Park and Preserve – Holbert Trail, Mormon Trail, Hau'pal Loop Trail and access to the National Trail from Pima Canyon Trailhead. Reach the reporter at Follow @dina_kaur on X, formerly known as Twitter, and on Bluesky @ Subscribe to today. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Can you hike in Phoenix in the summer? Protect yourself and your dog
Yahoo
28-05-2025
- Climate
- Yahoo
Hurricane season is almost here. When should I build my hurricane kit, what should I put in it?
We are less than a week away from the beginning of a forecaster-predicted above-average 2025 Atlantic hurricane season. The hurricane season runs from June 1 through Nov. 30; however, most forecasters and emergency officials stress the time to prepare for a storm before a hurricane is on its way. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is predicting between 13 and 19 named storms in 2025, making it an above-average season. Of those, six to 10 are predicted to become hurricanes, including three to five strengthening into major hurricanes. A big part of hurricane preparations is building a hurricane supplies kit. Here's what supplies should go in your kit, especially if you have children or pets in your household. Now, according to experts. "The best time to prepare for hurricanes is BEFORE hurricane season begins," NOAA said. "Avoid having to rush through potentially life-saving preparations by waiting until it's too late. Get your disaster supplies while the shelves are still stocked, and get that insurance checkup early, as flood insurance requires a 30-day waiting period." Before an emergency strikes, sit down with your family or close friends to come up with an evacuation plan. Experts at FEMA recommend figuring out how you will get in contact with each other, where you will go, and what you will do in an emergency. Once you have decided what will work best, keep a copy of this plan in your emergency supplies kit or another safe place where you can access it in the event of a disaster. According to FEMA's public service campaign website a basic emergency supply kit could include the following recommended items: Water (one gallon per person per day for several days, for drinking and sanitation) Food (at least a several-day supply of non-perishable food) Important documents, including medical documents, wills, passports, and personal identification) Battery-powered or hand crank radio and an NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert Flashlight First aid kit Extra batteries Whistle (to signal for help) Dust mask (to help filter contaminated air) Plastic sheeting and duct tape (to shelter in place) Moist towelettes, garbage bags, and plastic ties (for personal sanitation) Wrench or pliers (to turn off utilities) Manual can opener (for food) Local maps Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery Along with physical supplies, write down emergency phone numbers and addresses for safekeeping in your emergency kit. On a budget? Creating hurricane supplies kit important, but what if money is tight? Have your kids help make their own hurricane kit and gather test supplies like flashlights, their favorite shelf-stable snack or even a comfort item. Along the way, teach them about emergency supplies and write down important contacts for their kits, including names and phone numbers of a relative that does not live in the home. When it comes to specific items for younger children, you'll need to remember to grab formula, baby foods, bottles, baby wipes, and medications. You may want to pack items like an over-the-counter fever reducer for infants. It's also recommended to have a summary of your child's medical history, a list of medications and a copy of their shot records just in case. Before the season begins, you can check with your pediatrician to see if they have specific recommendations for your baby or toddler. As you race against the clock to grab supplies for yourself and family, make sure to pick up items to build an extra hurricane supply kit for your pets. Per the Red Cross, your kit should include: Sturdy leashes, harnesses and/or carriers to transport pets safely and ensure that they can't escape. Food, drinking water, bowls, cat litter/pan and a manual can opener if you pet eats canned food. Medications and copies of medical records stored in a waterproof container. A first aid kit. Current photos of you with your pet(s) in case they get lost. Since many pets look alike, this will help to eliminate mistaken identity and confusion. Information on feeding schedules, medical conditions, behavior problems, and the name and number of your veterinarian in case you have to foster or board your pets. Pet beds and toys, if easily transportable. AccuWeather Federal Alliance for Safe Homes NWS Red Cross If you live in a flood-prone area, you're especially vulnerable to hurricane impacts. However, remember that even it you don't live in a flood-prone area, you're not necessarily safe since extreme rain can flood even those areas. Here's how to find out the flood risk for your area so you can plan accordingly: Go to FEMA's Flood Risk website, Scroll down and enter your zip code and click on Discover Your Risk Look at the map to see if your risk is low, moderate or high You can also enter your address for a more precise view of your risk You can also check NOAA's Coastal Flood Exposure Mapper at Zoom in on the map to see a coastal flood hazard composite showing zones 1 to 11. This article originally appeared on Fort Myers News-Press: Hurricane Season 2025 is almost here: Don't wait, build your kits now
Yahoo
30-04-2025
- Climate
- Yahoo
Floods kill more people than tornadoes: Here's how to stay safe amid more rain in Oklahoma
With the long-term forecast showing an above-average chance of rain for the next few weeks, dangerous flooding is a risk Oklahomans should be prepared for. As of April 29, parts of central and southwestern Oklahoma have seen as much as 6 inches of rain over the past week. The deluge has kept the soil water-logged, which makes flooding more likely. By May 2, Lawton is expected to get another 4.2 inches of rain. Oklahoma City could see 3 inches of rain, according to the Oklahoma Mesonet Ticker, a daily publication from Oklahoma Climatological Survey. "Stay weather aware, folks. And flooded roadway aware. It could save your life," wrote state Climatologist Gary McManus. Along with being the most common natural disaster in the United States, floods also kill more people on average than tornadoes. As of 2023, floods killed an average of 103 people a year over the previous decade. Tornadoes, however, caused just 48 deaths on average during the same period, according to the National Weather Service. The only other weather phenomenon with a higher mortality count is heat. Without warning: Rising water, especially flash floods, can quickly overrun dry areas. This can trap people who can't seek higher ground. Deceptive depth: Safety experts warn that driving through floodwaters is extremely dangerous. Vehicles can get stuck in deceptively deep water or be washed off the road even with a slow current. Turn around, don't drown. Tainted water: Hazardous chemicals and harmful bacteria can be found in floodwaters, which is a health threat, especially to underground water sources. Unseen dangers: Floodwater often becomes murky as it erodes the soil. Under the surface could be tree limbs, pieces of destroyed structures and even active power lines. Post-flood hazards: Structures that are supposed to stay dry, like the interior of a home, can be damaged with long-term contact with water. After the flood recedes, mold becomes a major concern. The most important first step to preparing for any severe weather situation is to be informed and have a plan for what to do. If you live in an area that is prone to flooding, make sure that anything susceptible to water is kept on a shelf instead of the floor. Sandbags can help keep some water at bay. Residents should also know alternate routes to travel if there is any water on the road. Check emergency broadcasts for the latest travel advisories. If the flooding in your area is serious, officials might ask residents to evacuate. Have an emergency kit and supplies ready so that you can leave quickly if requested or ordered. Beyond that, staying safe during severe weather requires an understanding of the risks. According to just six inches of moving water can knock you down, and one foot of moving water can sweep your vehicle away. This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Dangerous flash flooding, rain persists in Oklahoma: How to stay safe
Yahoo
17-03-2025
- Climate
- Yahoo
Tips on protection against wildfires & potential evacuations
OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) – On Monday, the Norman National Weather Service says Oklahomans are under Critical to extreme fire danger and residents should expect breezy southwest winds of 15 to 25 mph and gusts up to 45 mph. A Red Flag Warning has been issued for most of the area Monday from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM. Here are some steps you when preparing in advance for a potential evacuation: Check local fire and police department Facebook and Twitter accounts, and sign up for alerts. Go to for other alert apps to download. Others are: FEMA The National Weather Service (NWS) or NWS Norman KFOR weather watches and warnings Drive each route so you know it, and choose a place out of town where family can meet a home, parking lot or park. Keep assembled pet carriers and leashes ready. Have your name, cell number and vet's name and office number written clearly on carriers. For more information on preparing pets for evacuation, click Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Oklahoma lawmakers push to eradicate invasive red cedar trees amid fire danger Protect important documents and photos in a fireproof safe or bank safety deposit box. Create password-protected digital copies to place in a second secure location. Keep a flashlight, sturdy shoes and your cellphone charged near your bed. Numbers for family, friends, doctors, insurances, veterinarians, etc. Place one copy in your emergency kit, and one near your phone or in your cellphone. Have an out-of-town family member or friend you can call who will pass updates to family and friends for you. Time how long it takes you to pack your car and for everyone to be in it and on the road. Practice, Practice practice evacuating animals. Prescriptions, medications, medic alert jewelry and your doctor's contact information Water, food, poop pick-up bags and other supplies for each pet A map with at least two familiar evacuation routes At least one change of clothes for each person in your household Extra pairs of glasses and contact lenses Extra set of car keys Credit cards, cash or traveler's checks Extra cell phone charging cord First aid kit At least two working flashlights with newer/recently-charged batteries, and extra batteries An emergency battery-powered radio with extra batteries Cleaning supplies and toiletries Add easily-carried valuables, family photo albums, computer files on stick drives, laptops and other electronics. Local fire departments are releasing tips to stay alert and avoid wildfires: Avoid any activities that could create sparks (welding, grinding, campfires, burning debris, etc.). Secure outdoor items that could be blown into power lines or cause sparks. Properly dispose of cigarettes—never toss them on the ground. Avoid driving or parking on dry grass; hot exhaust systems can ignite fires. Have an emergency plan in place—know at least two ways out of your neighborhood in case one is blocked by fire or emergency crews. Keep roads clear for emergency vehicles—do not block access or follow fire crews. Be prepared for possible power outages and road closures. Report fires immediately by calling 911. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
17-03-2025
- General
- Yahoo
This Detroit woman lost her home in a fire largely due to a code violation. Here's what went wrong
A recent fire has left a Detroit woman homeless — and wondering if some of the damage could have been prevented if the apartment building was up to code. Regiina Owens, a retired nurse living with multiple sclerosis, noticed flames in her apartment January 23 as someone was helping her cook dinner. I'm 49 years old and have nothing saved for retirement — what should I do? Don't panic. Here are 5 of the easiest ways you can catch up (and fast) Home prices in America could fly through the roof in 2025 — here's the big reason why and how to take full advantage (with as little as $10) Americans with upside-down car loans owe more money than ever before — and drivers can't keep up. Here are 3 ways to cut your monthly costs ASAP "I didn't know exactly what was happening, all I knew was that I saw some flames in the kitchen," Owens told CBS News. Despite not knowing how serious the flames might be, she quickly evacuated and called 911. According to the Detroit Fire Department, it took firefighters just three minutes and 57 seconds to get to the complex, but Owens says they got to the fire much later. 'I could hear their sirens, but it seemed like it was taking forever for them to get there," Owens told CBS News. Here's what happened and how to avoid a mishap in an emergency situation where time is of the essence. Owens could hear sirens for several minutes because of a locked gate at the back of the apartment complex, Marketplace Court Apartments. The gate restricted firefighters' access to the unit, forcing them to drive a block away to access a hydrant, reported CBS News. "How insecure is that?" Owens asked during an interview with CBS reporters. "When an emergency occurs, they can't get in quick." Even a few minutes of delay can allow a fire to spread, worsen the damage and even risk lives. According to a fire can become life-threatening in just two minutes — quicker than it took firefighters to reach Owen's apartment. CBS reported that the locked gate was a fire code violation. The Detroit Fire Department cited Marketplace Court Apartments for the misstep, though reporters were unable to reach the building's management for comment. For now, Owens is trying to pick up the pieces and rebuild her life — including re-purchasing expensive medical equipment. "I was a nurse for 20 years and had to retire when I was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis," Owens said. "I was comfortable in that apartment because it was accessible." She is living with her son and grandson in the interim, but it's not ideal. She lost many of her mobility aids in the fire, and her son's place is difficult for her to navigate. "My home isn't accessible like hers was," said her son, Kristopher Owens. "It's a struggle to get around corners, the bathroom isn't large enough and we don't have any sort of ramp to help her get in and out of the home." Owens does have renters insurance, but they're not sure when the money will be available or how long it will take to find another accessible apartment. Her son has set up a GoFundMe for financial aid in the meantime. Read more: An alarming 97% of older Americans are carrying debt into retirement — here's why and 4 simple things you can do if you're stuck in the same situation When a property has code violations, it's not just a matter of inconvenience — it can also create complications when it comes to insurance payout and rates. If a landlord refuses to comply with fire safety regulations, it could be considered negligence, which might impact claim approval. In some cases, an insurance provider may deny claims or reduce payouts if they determine the code violation contributed to the damage, according to Omar Ochoa Law Firm. If your building has multiple code violations, insurers may increase your rates or refuse coverage altogether due to the increased risk. For example, if a fire spreads due to a blocked or inaccessible hydrant — as was the case in Owens' apartment complex — an insurer might argue that the fire could have been contained earlier if proper fire safety measures were in place. Fortunately, a renters insurance policy should still protect the belongings of the tenant. But a negligent landlord can still create delays and financial uncertainty for displaced tenants who are relying on their insurance payout to recover. While renters can't control whether their landlord follows safety regulations, there are steps you can take to protect yourself: Report anything you suspect is a code violation to the property manager or fire department if needed, including blocked doors, broken smoke alarms or locked gates. Ensure your policy covers potential risks, such as fire damage, temporary housing and the replacement of expensive medical equipment. Consider increasing your coverage limit or adding riders for mobility equipment, required medical equipment or other items you need for daily life. Know your rights. If your insurance company denies your claim due to landlord negligence, consider getting legal assistance or hiring an independent insurance adjuster. For Owens and her family, the impact of this fire goes beyond just losing a home — it highlights how crucial it is for rental properties to meet safety standards. Without proper enforcement, renters are at risk of both physical danger and financial hardship. Want an extra $1,300,000 when you retire? Dave Ramsey says this 7-step plan 'works every single time' to kill debt, get rich in America — and that 'anyone' can do it Rich, young Americans are ditching the stormy stock market — here are the alternative assets they're banking on instead Protect your retirement savings with these 5 essential money moves — most of which you can complete in just minutes This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.
