During your trip to Phoenix/Tempe you will get to experience one of the most beautiful cities in the Southwest. With the amazing desert vistas and gorgeous blue skies comes the desert heat. Below you will find some tips for dealing with the heat so you can make the most of your time in the Valley of the Sun!
General Tips
- Hydration is one of the best tools available to help your body cope with the heat. Bring bottled water to sessions and be sure that you are drinking water consistently throughout the day. Water and sports drinks are the best for hydration. If you are drinking a carbonated beverage, or a drink containing caffeine or alcohol, be sure that you are drinking water or a sports drink as well. Caffeine, alcohol, and carbonation can all cause dehydration.
- Be sure to bring a hat and wear plenty of sunscreen whenever you will be spending time outside. You will want to get outside and enjoy the city and Phoenix has over 300 sunny days per year.
- Avoid strenuous activities during the hotter parts of the day. If you plan to exercise outdoors during your trip, be sure to plan your activities during the cooler parts of the day. Typically the early morning and late evening are the most comfortable. If you will be doing anything strenuous outside, be sure that you are hydrated and drink water throughout your activity.
- Rooms inside the school of music will be cool. While the temperatures outside may reach into the low 100s, the rooms inside the School of Music will be in the low 70s. The huge contrast in temperatures can make some people feel cold while in the building. You may want to bring a light jacket or other garment to wear while you are attending sessions.
- Listen to your body and watch out for any signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke. If you experience dizziness/lightheadedness, nausea, severe headaches, or muscle cramps, you may be suffering from heat exhaustion. If you experience these symptoms, be sure to get yourself to a cool location, drink cool water or a sports drink that will help replenish some of the salt your body has lost. If those symptoms persist you may be experiencing heat/sunstroke and should seek medical assistance.