Simple tips for staying safe in hot weather are crucial as summer heat arrives

SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4) — Looking at data from the Department of Public Safety on the number of heat strokes in Utah over the past few years, it becomes obvious just how necessary it is to repeatedly share ways to stay safe in the heat this summer.

According to the Utah Department of Public Safety, between 2024 and the present, there have been a total of 603 cases of heat stroke or exhaustion in Utah. This number is based on emergency medical services provider impressions.

There were 561 cases in 2024, and 87 so far in 2025. The most cases occurred during the months of June, July, and August. July was the peak month of 2024.

This May saw 49 recorded cases, which DPS said is more than twice the number of cases reported in May last year. This could be attributed to the record high heats we saw in May.

ABC4.com spoke with Mark Herrera, Program Manager with the Bureau of Emergency Medical Services, about the best ways to protect yourself in the dry Utah heat this summer.

“The biggest thing that people need to remember is to stay hydrated. Water will be their friend,” Herrera said. “Electrolytes also help with hydration. Stay out of heat. If they’re feeling any sort of symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, sweating, confusion, they’re going to want to find shade immediately, and also call 9-1-1 for assistance if they’re not getting better.”

These may seem like simple, obvious things to do, but based on how many people suffer from heat stroke and heat exhaustion each year, it is important to repeat it.

Herrerra also described what people need to look out for to help keep their neighbors safe.

“The biggest thing we find a lot is especially in the vulnerable populations, really got to keep an eye on them,” he said. “If they’re working outside and they’re cutting the yard or working, just various things, taking walks, just keep an eye out for those vulnerable populations. See how they’re doing.”

The most vulnerable populations are the elderly, people with other health conditions, and children, according to Herrera.

“You don’t even want to keep a children or dog in your car for any sort of time, especially in this heat,” he said.

Herrera also discussed a common misconception that people have about being out in the heat.

“They just they ignore the subtle signs and symptoms. They’re feeling like a little bit of nausea or dizziness. They think they’re fine. They’ll just drink some water,” he described. “The reality is they need to get outside away from the heat, direct heat. They need to get to shade or get to some cold area.”

He suggested that people check with their local health department for more specific information on staying out of the heat.