Hey Wickenburg friends!
As we roll into another scorching summer, it’s time to prep ourselves, our homes, our rides, and our friends for the extreme heat that’s heading our way. We all know it can get seriously toasty out here, but no worries – we’ve got some hot tips (pun intended!) to keep you cool, safe, and in top shape.
Home Sweet Home
Let’s start with our humble abodes. Keeping your house cool is a must, and preventative maintenance is key. Make sure to:
- Check Your A/C: The folks at McMillan Air (928-684-5375) and Wickenburg Air ((928) 427-6480) can give your air conditioner a tune-up or repair to make sure it’s running efficiently. Trust us, you don’t want it breaking down in the middle of a heatwave!
- Window Coverings: Good blinds or curtains can keep that blistering sun out. Check out Elite Shutters & Blinds at 86 N Valentine St (928-352-8808) for stylish and effective options.
- Appliances & Fans: Make sure your fridge and freezer are in tip-top shape to keep your food fresh. The Pony 2nd Hand and Appliance Store at 662 West Wickenburg Way offers great deals on gently used energy-efficient models.
- Outdoor Cooling: Want to enjoy your patio without overheating? MistAmerica (602-255-0500) has fantastic misting systems that can drop the temperature by several degrees and make your outdoor spaces comfortable even on the hottest days.
- Watering: Water your plants early in the morning or late in the evening to reduce evaporation and ensure the roots absorb the moisture. Deep watering is more effective than frequent shallow watering. Greenspot Nursery website has a useful link where you can ask an in-house Desert Gardening Expert ‘Amira’ your summer gardening questions – Click: greenspotnurseryaz.com/ask-amira
Keep Your Ride Cool
Your car & RV need some summer love too:
- Auto Maintenance: Get your car’s A/C checked, and make sure your coolant levels are good. Fleet First Services at 30306 US Highway 60 (928-566-3794) has got you covered for all your car and RV maintenance needs. Don’t forget… check your batteries! Wickenburg Summers eat them for breakfast!
- Tire Inflation Levels: The heat can cause tire pressure to increase, leading to blowouts. Make sure to check and adjust your tire pressure regularly. Quick Lane Tire & Auto Center at 781 W. Wickenburg Way, or Big O Tire at 540 E Wickenburg Way can help you maintain the perfect tire pressure to keep you safe on the road.
- RV Storage: If you’re storing an RV, make sure it’s in a cool, shaded spot. Wicked RV Storage at 4015 North Industrial Road offers great indoor storage options, or Double J Storage at 500 W. Vulture Mine Rd for a safe and shaded spot to keep your RV in top condition.
Furry Friends
Our pets feel the heat too, so let’s keep them cool and comfy:
- Timing: When it comes to walking your pet, it’s all about the timing. Getting up and at it early in the a.m. before the heat kicks in is key! Remember, if the pavement or ground is hot to the touch, it’s even more so on your best friend’s paws. Don’t forget to watch out for snakes click here:
- Hydration: Always have fresh water available. Refill throughout the day and also at night before you go to bed.
- Keep Them Indoors: If at all possible, pets should be kept inside during the summer months or at the very least in a well-shaded area with plenty of water. If you see or know of anyone not working to keep their pets comfortable this summer, call the Humane Society Of Wickenburg at 928-684-8801 IMMEDIATELY.
- Grooming: Keep their fur trimmed to help them stay cool. Robbie’s Grooming Saloon at 472 E Wickenburg Way Suite 301 is a local favorite!
- Pets and Cars: NEVER under any circumstance, leave your pet in your vehicle. Even if it’s for “just a minute”… Life happens, you can get distracted or forgetful, and the interior of your car can heat to LETHAL temperatures in just a few minutes. If you see an animal in a parked car, call 911 IMMEDIATELY!
Stay Fit & Healthy
Don’t let the heat stop your fitness routine:
- Timing: Exercise early in the morning or later in the evening when it’s cooler.
- Hydrate: Drink lots of water before, during, and after your workouts.
- Indoor Options: Join Snap Fitness to work out in a cool, air-conditioned environment.
Recreation Center & Public Pool: Wickenburg Town Recreation Center has you covered with tons of activities to beat the heat, including the fantastic public pool. Swim some laps, join a water aerobics class, or just splash around to cool down. (Check online before you visit at wickenburgaz.gov/1382/Aquatics)
Wear The Right Stuff
Don’t let your outfit ruin your day:
- Clothing: Loose, light-colored clothing made of breathable and moisture-wicking materials are best during the summer months. Look to Serape Bleu located at 164 N Tegner St. & Seven Roan at 70 E Apache St, or Cowgirl Bling Bling at 124 N Tegner St in Downtown Wickenburg and NRS located at 955 W Wickenburg Way for the most stylish options in town.
- Headwear: Get a hat! Believe it or not, a hat will save your life! Serape Bleu, Seven Roan, NRS, Carol Trading Co. and even Son Silver West at 30220 U.S. Hwy 60 89 all have excellent selections, from cowboy hats to lightweight caps and wide-brimmed hats to keep you cool and stylish this summer.
Community
Don’t forget about your senior friends & neighbors:
- Wellness Checks: As y’all know… Wickenburg has its fair share of senior citizens (many living on their own). Pride or even embarrassment may get in the way of them simply asking for help. If at all possible this summer, knock on your neighbor’s door and say Hi. Check if they need anything, and if you see a problem, just give a call to our awesome first responders & medics at the Wickenburg Fire Department at 928-684-7702.
- Emergency Transportation: Maricopa County is proud to offer a variety of free transportation options to the community through the 211 Transportation Hotline. Dial 211.
- Heat Relief Information: Arizona is one of the hottest places on earth from May to September. Heat-related illnesses are common during the summer, and some heat-related illnesses can even be fatal. For Heat Relief Information, Dial 711.
Goes without sayin’: If you or someone you know is experiencing a medical emergency or any symptoms of heat-related illness, call 911 immediately.
Remember, staying cool and safe during the summer is a team effort. Take care of your home, your car, your pets, your neighbors, and yourself.
Stay cool, Wickenburg!
P.S. Keep an eye out for our next post where we’ll dive into summer events and more ways to enjoy the season without melting.
For more amazing summer gear & styles, take a look at our 2024 Summer Gear Guide Click Here
