35. Staying cool is a team effort
The triple-digit temperatures are here, and hosts Juliana and Ricky are talking about summer safety. Guests Cleo Warner from the Maricopa Association of Governments and Michelle Litwin from Phoenix’s Office of Heat Response and Mitigation talk about what their organizations are doing to keep residents cool. Plus, learn how Valley Metro is helping bring heat relief to riders.
Transcript
Have you ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes of your daily commute?
Ricky:Or how transportation impacts the community you call home?
Juliana:Maybe you want to explore outside your community and don't know where to start.
Ricky:Well, you're in luck because this is where you hop on.
Juliana:I'm Julianna Vazquez-Keating.
Ricky:And I'm Ricky Tejada.
Juliana:We work for Valley Metro and together we'll discover all the ways that public transit enhances lives across the cities we serve.
Ricky:And we might even make some new friends along the way.
Juliana:Welcome to Storylines. On this episode of Storylines, we're talking about something that's on everyone's mind right now, the heat. Ricky, you and your team of Customer Experience Coordinators are out in the heat every single day, right?
Ricky:Yeah, Juliana, we're already seeing the 110-degree weather, um, so my team and I are doing everything that we can to stay cool.
Juliana:Well, you're definitely not alone there. But not everyone has what they need to stay cool. Fortunately, for those in need of heat relief, the Maricopa Association of Governments, also known as MAG, runs a Heat Relief Network every year to help keep people safe from the extreme heat.
Ricky:And we got to sit down with someone from MAG to learn about how they are adapting to the county's climate.
Cleo:I'm Cleo Warner and I'm a human services planner at the Maricopa Association of Governments or MAG.
Ricky:Now, Cleo, you're no stranger to Storylines. For those who haven't listened to episode 21, you were on here sharing some great information on heat relief. But can you tell us and give us a little bit more information about the Heat Relief Network?
Cleo:Absolutely. So, the Heat Relief Network is a community wide partnership that ensures there are heat relief sites and resources available to those who are in need during our heat season here usually we consider that to be May 1st through September 30th. And the goal of this work is always to reduce the number of heat related deaths and injuries and MAG’s role in this network is to create and maintain the Heat Relief Network map that is available online and shows where these sites are and what they offer and I can let you know that this year we are up to 218 locations already and that is across 61 different organizations. So we are pretty on par with where we were at last year.
Juliana:So we know the heat relief program is constantly evolving to fit the needs of the community. How has the Heat Relief Network changed in the last year based on last summer's statistics?
Cleo:So each year coordination among the main partners, such as our cities or ASU or the county, our faith community, our nonprofit community, that coordination increases every year, and this year is definitely no exception to that. So we really have all been working together since, honestly, as soon as last year's heat season ended, so the work really never ends when it comes to figuring out how to offer heat relief to our area. And additionally, there's been increased leadership and coordination from both Maricopa County as well as the state and the Maricopa County Department of Public Health as well as the Arizona Department of Health Services have both hired for heat relief specific coordinators. So that's been really exciting to get their support and leadership and guidance through this as we continue. To figure out how to best connect people with the needed resources. And the County in particular has been pushing for sites to be open for longer periods of time, or to be open on the weekends and to be making sure that we are really strategic about where heat relief is offered. So, having their support and all of this has really been an amazing push this year.
Ricky:And we know last year we experienced the longest and hottest heat wave on record. Now how has that record in recent years affected MAG's stance on heat relief?
Cleo:So really at its core, our mission stays the same. So it is to reduce the number of heat related injury and death, dangerous and deadly heat is definitely nothing new to our area. We do know that, you know, last year was detrimental and we know that this is increasing every year. But, whether it is one person or the 645 deaths that we saw last summer, heat related death is preventable and we will continue working to ensure that there is access to this life saving relief. And for us at MAG, that really means, really working overtime to make sure that the map accurately reflects what resources are on the ground and continuing to coordinate with and support the other Heat Relief Network partners however we can.
Juliana:So would you say the program is evolving every year? You take lessons learned from the previous year, implement those the following season just to make sure everybody stays safe.
Cleo:Absolutely. So, an example of one of those lessons, from two years ago, let's say, was that there was a large community need and request for locations where you could sleep or get some rest. So, then we implemented this new site type, the respite centers, and that is where people can have uninterrupted rest or sleep during their visit. And so that was, an amazing response from the Heat Relief Network to a community need and this year, you know, we're only a few weeks into our heat season, and we already have the same number of respite centers as we did last year. So, it's really great to see that effort come into place. And then an example from this year, another response to a community request is to have more standards and expectations set up around what these heat relief sites are offering and this is definitely a tricky challenge around such a widespread network that has a bunch of lateral partnerships. But, essentially, what we did was work really closely with the county and the community to create this new process where we have community agreed upon expectations and standards for the minimum requirements for each site and those are available on the MAG website. So exciting to just every year step toward better coordination, better structure, and a better response to what the community is looking for.
Juliana:That's great to hear there's overnight sites. I know that was such an important thing to have somewhere to go to rest with some air conditioning.
Cleo:Yes, definitely and we for sure have the city of Phoenix and Maricopa County to thank for the 24/7 respite center that is available at the Burton Bar Library this year. So really exciting to see steps in those directions and figure out, you know, what works best.
Ricky:What advice would you give to residents who want to stay safe during the summer?
Cleo:I'm not in public health, but I will reiterate what our state departments are saying. So it is stay cool, stay hydrated and stay informed. Stay inside with AC and avoid direct sunlight as much as you can. We know that's not a reality for all of the populations that we have here, but, if possible, that is one of the number one ways to stay safe and drinking water consistently, even when you're not thirsty. Really important to just stay hydrated throughout the day. And planning outdoor activities when it is safe to do so. Our hiking trails become extremely dangerous over the summer. So, while it can look really beautiful outside, and you think you maybe can handle it, it's just really better to plan ahead and stay safe and know the signs of heat stroke, be able to recognize them in yourself and others and access help immediately.
Juliana:So how can people help the Heat Relief Network and where can they donate?
Cleo:So, I always recommend that people become familiar with the map and the resources that are online and spread the word. One of the largest challenges we have about the Heat Relief Network is making sure that those who are most in need of these resources know where to go. So, anything you can do to help that fills a huge gap for the network. And then, if you have the ability to donate items or to volunteer time, take a look at what heat relief sites are in your area and contact them directly so that you can see what they need. Each site is unique. So it's important to make sure that you are making those connections with what's in your neighborhood and asking what they need. It could be someone coming by and volunteering. It could be pallets of water. It could be cooling towels. So it's really important to make those connections and for more help on this, or if you're not really sure where to start, then you can email HSinfo@azmag.gov and we'll help you out.
Juliana:Is there anything else you'd like to add?
Cleo:Well, I would say that if you want to learn more about the Heat Relief Network, you can go to azmag.gov/heatrelief and that is where the map lives, and we have some resources tips for keeping cool and some other information. So definitely recommend people check that out. And then, one thing I notice each year with the heat is how it really brings out our connectedness as a community and each year we as a network are volunteering countless hours to making sure this endeavor continues to exist. And this really is in large part due to the tenacity of those who open their doors and make sure that they are offering heat relief to the public every year. And we simply could not do this without their kindness and their generosity. So really want to send a huge thank you to all those who are on the front lines of heat each year and truthfully saving lives by allowing people to get inside and get hydrated. And also I cannot stress enough how important it is to check on your neighbors and your loved ones this summer. We know that indoor deaths are increasing as well each year, and that, according to the county data, 80 percent of those deaths, there was AC present. It just wasn't working or being run. So, it is so important to make sure that your loved ones are staying safe indoors this summer as well. So, my advice to everyone is, stay safe and check on each other as much as you can because keeping everyone safe really is a community effort every summer.
Ricky:It's always great to learn about all the ways the Heat Relief Network is keeping people in the Valley cool during the hottest months of the year.
Juliana:Combating the Valley's extreme heat is not something that can be done by one group or organization. It's a team effort that includes organizations across the Valley. We spoke with someone from Phoenix's Office of Heat Response and Mitigation about how the city is helping in the fight against deadly heat.
Michelle:Michelle Littwin. I am the Heat Response Program Manager.
Juliana:So the City of Phoenix established the Office of Heat Response and Mitigation back in 2021 because they saw a need. So what are the main goals of the organization?
Michelle:Yeah, thank you for that question. I believe a good place to references our heat response plan, which is now in our 3rd iteration, and we've had three goals that stay pretty consistent within those three, updates and those three goals have been to decrease the number of heat related incidences and deaths that we see, decrease the number of 911 calls related to heat related incidences, and then to continue to cross collaborate between not only city departments, but also external stakeholders and partners, and keep an ongoing collection of programs that tie into heat response. Just make sure that we're constantly keeping track of what we're doing, using data to continually change and update and be flexible. So those are our three guiding principles in our office.
Ricky:And last year we did experience the longest heat wave on record. It feels like this year we're headed right in that same pace. So how has the record heat in recent years affected your organization's approach to heat relief?
Michelle:I think seeing and recognizing that he is so dangerous and such a key factor to being here in the Valley is established our office, the office of heat response and mitigation. We are the first publicly funded office of this kind. So we're really setting the guidelines and principles of what other cities are going to attempt to do. And every year we are trying to be as flexible as possible using data from years past using lived experience. And making sure that we are making real time changes and updates to respond to the heat that we are seeing every year.
Juliana:So would you say that you're able to amplify your approach every year based on data from previous years?
Michelle:100%. And this year, the City of Phoenix, really doing, more than ever for heat relief. And we continue to invest in heat response here in the City of Phoenix. Our top priority is to ensure that residents have access to cool indoor space, heat relief resources. And we really are trying to be a leader and be at the forefront of heat response and mitigation here, not only regionally, but within the nation.
Juliana:And that includes teaming up with other organizations because we know heat relief cannot be done by one person. It's a team effort.
Michelle:100%. We love collaboration. More hens in the hen house. Every single day I'm meeting new people. I'm meeting new organizations. We are part of the Maricopa County Association of Governments’ Heat Relief Network. And that is a regional partnership that includes other municipalities and government-based agencies, but that also includes smaller stakeholder groups, Arizona Faith Network is a part of that. Salvation Army is a part of that. So it really is to your point, such a collaborative effort because I'm one person, our team is very small. So we want to make sure that resources are getting out to as many people as possible in a variety of different ways.
Juliana:So, what advice would you give to residents who want to stay cool and safe during the summer?
Michelle:I think it's really important to remind people what the signs and symptoms of heat stroke and heat exhaustion are. So if you start feeling dizzy, you start feeling nauseous, have you stopped sweating. You are in danger. You need to find the closest building. You need to get inside, try and get some water, cool down. Sharing that message with friends, families, you know, partners, neighbors. That way, you know you're not in this alone. We all are in this together, and that way we can keep more people safe. Constantly drink water even when you're not thirsty. Try and have something with electrolytes in it because if we don't know, you can drink as much water as you want, you're still going to end up dehydrated in this heat. So I really do recommend trying to find something with an electrolyte base, to make sure that you can stay safe. And limit exposure, obviously, during the hottest parts of the day. And just always make sure you have the water, you know where you're going. I know we don't all have ease of access to that. So that's why we are making sure that we have more cool spaces available for people. So, if your AC is down, go to the public library and enjoy that cool space. Enjoy the resources that are there. So, knowing where those cool spaces are, knowing those signs and symptoms, reminding yourself, hey, I need to be drinking water even though I'm not thirsty right now, those are sort of the little tips that I like to make sure that people know about.
Ricky:Definitely hydrate, hydrate, hydrate this summer. I think it's a great effort that this office is doing to keep, our residents safe. is there anything else that you'd like to add?
Michelle:Yeah, I just want to make sure that you know, everyone out there knows about the heat relief resources that are available. You can, call 211 for a free ride to your closest cooling center or respite center. There's a lot of really great information, I'm going to put a little plug in here, phoenix.gov/summer. It's got the Heat Relief Network map on it. It's got the information on 211, the signs and symptoms that we talked about. It will also have information on there about, if your AC goes out or if you need additional resources, if you are experiencing homelessness, there's different resources on that page that I mentioned, and I really would advocate for everybody to continue to check on your neighbors, check on your loved ones, share this messaging. We really want to see those heat related incidences stop going up really support one another to get through this season. And, you know, just really proud to be a part of this initiative. Very proud to be a part of the city of Phoenix is heat response team and knowing that every single year we are using that data, evaluating, making real time changes to make sure that we are effective as possible.
Juliana:So one more question. Is there a way for the community to get involved? Can they donate anything? Is there anything that they can do if they're interested in helping?
Michelle:Yeah, we have a lot of really amazing volunteer opportunities. Some of which I believe are on that phoenix.gov/summer website. We have done heat relief outreach in the past. And so there are ways to get involved with that. We also have heat relief kit making sometimes, our 24/7 respite center sometimes is looking for volunteers. So. I think it really does come down to, you know, just continuing this communication. I know I sound like a broken record at this point, but if you want to be involved and you want to make sure that people are safe, then do those check ins, check in on people. Because sometimes someone is waiting, they're not always going to reach out and say, hey, like I am not able to afford my air conditioning. Like, I don't know where to go. I don't know what to do right? Like they're not going to reach out. And so that check in on that, that friend or neighbor, whoever it may be might be exactly what they need. That might be life saving for them.
Juliana:It's amazing how many ways the city of Phoenix is working to keep the community a safe and cooler place to live. Valley Metro is doing our own part to help bring heat relief and your team is a big help, right Ricky?
Ricky:That's right Juliana. Every week this summer, the Customer Experience Coordinator team will be hosting a heat relief station at different platforms through the different cities. We've kind of worked around on specific dates and on specific times. We kind of started a little earlier first, and we're moving it into a little bit more of the afternoon hours just to kind of help out, to actually be there when the sun is at its hottest and we are at those degrees that nobody, and I mean, nobody likes to be in. At these heat relief stations, you're able to pick up water, some sunscreen, sunglasses, some fans, anything to keep you cool during this summer heat, but you're also able to pick up some information on where the heat relief stations are and what you can do to actually combat that heat and stay cool during these extreme heat months.
Juliana:And I'm sure our riders appreciate that. All the water, all the cooling towels, all the things to help keep them cool this summer. And our South Central project team is also doing what they can to help keep people cool. They're donating cooling towels to heat relief centers. They're donating water. We're just trying to do our part to make sure that our riders and the community stay cool.
Ricky:That's right. Keep An eye out on our social media channels to learn when and where we're hosting our next heat relief event.
Juliana:That's it for this episode of Storylines. Don't forget to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. For Valley Metro, I'm Juliana.
Ricky:I'm Ricky.
Juliana:Thanks for riding with us.
Ricky:We'll meet you at the next stop. Storylines is produced by Alex Tsotsos and Dane Ryals. Peter Corkery is the executive producer. For Juliana Vasquez-Keating, I'm Ricky Tejada. Thanks for listening.
