Stay safe on Yuma trails as temperatures rise
Adrik Vargas
YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) – With triple-digit temperatures already hitting Yuma, local firefighters are urging hikers to take extra precautions before heading outdoors.
The Yuma Fire Department (YFD) says preparation is key to staying safe on the trails, especially during the hottest part of the year.
“If you are gonna get active and get outside, do it during the cooler parts of the day,” said David Padilla with YFD. “Avoid that 12 o’clock to 4 or 5 o’clock time frame where the heat is at its worst.”
In addition to timing, the department advises hikers to bring more water than they think they’ll need and to carry a fully charged phone in case of an emergency.
“Preplanning your trip, letting somebody else know that you’re gonna be out doing activity or hiking, letting them know where you expect to be, how long you expect to be out there,” Padilla added.
This way, if someone doesn’t return as planned, there’s someone who knows where to start looking.
Spencer Aiken, physical educator at Stronger Together Education Academy, also recommends building upper body and leg strength to prepare for the weight of backpacks and the physical demands of uphill trails.
Exercises like rows, lunges, and step-ups can help hikers avoid injury and improve endurance.