Beat the heat on Indpendence Day

July 4, 6:43 PMPhoenix Travel ExaminerJay Hammond

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Shady Fourth of July. Copyright 2007. All rights reserved.

The 4th of July is a HOT holiday throughout the Phoenix metro area. It's not just the many things there are to do. It's also the temperatures which are forecast to reach highs of more than 100 degrees Fahrenheit across the Valley.

According to experts, the hottest part of the day tends to be between noon and 4.p.m which may explain why so many events don't kick off until 7 p.m. or later. Another thing the experts don't seem to consider is the effect of concrete and other paving. These surfaces capture the heat of the day and radiate it back for hours. In other words, even if you stay inside until dusk, when area fireworks displays are scheduled to begin, you will still experience Phoenix legendary heat.

If you are not used to being in triple-digit temperatures, here are some tips for staying healthy and enjoying your holiday plans:

• Drink plenty of water, even if you aren't thirsty. All of the area events allow you to bring in a bottle of water, so do it.
• Avoid alcoholic beverages. (Yes, I know, it IS the 4th of July. Try any way, especially if you are outdoors because even though alcohol does cool your body, it also contributes to dehydration and if you are outside you are going to be sweating and at risk of dehydration anyway)
• Wear a hat and sunglasses. Use sunscreen, too, and don't forget to put it on the tops of your ears if you're wearing a baseball cap or the tops of your feet if you're wearing flip-flops or sandals. Phoenix isn't called the Valley of the Sun without reason. Not only can a bad sunburn run your good time, it can also increase your risk of skin cancer. Which is also why wearing loose-fitting clothes in light colors.
• Be alert for the signs and symptoms of heat-related illness including cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke. If you, or someone around you experience heavy sweating, intense thirst, dizziness, nausea and/or a weak of rapid pulse, it may be heat exhaustion. Heat exhaustion precedes heat stroke which is a life-threatening emergency. Both are caused by excessive loss of body fluids and salts. The person exhibiting these symptoms should seek medical care immediately. The first-aid stations at most of the large events around the Valley are equipped to deal with heat-related illness. Don't be afraid to use them.

Hopefully, following these simple guidelines will get you through today's celebrations safely and in good health. Now get out there and have some FUN!