Arizona’s Maricopa County Spearheads Billboard Campaign for Heat Safety
Regional digital billboard campaign will alert residents and visitors in Maricopa County, AZ of lifesaving heat relief resources and real-time temperatures. Image via Maricopa County.
By Tammy Leytham
As record-breaking temperatures sweep the nation, Arizona’s Maricopa County, in partnership with Clear Channel Outdoor, has launched a crucial billboard campaign to combat heat-related illnesses. This initiative aims to provide life-saving information directly to those at risk by using digital billboards to display local heat relief resources.
In Maricopa County alone, 645 heat-associated deaths were reported in 2023, according to the Maricopa County Department of Public Health, a stark increase from previous years. To prevent a repeat of these tragic statistics, Maricopa County, in collaboration with the Maricopa Association of Governments and the city of Phoenix, has initiated the display of critical information on over 100 digital billboards across South-Central Arizona.
These billboards prominently feature the free, 24-hour 211 information service, guiding community members to more than 230 local heat relief sites, including cooling and respite centers. Maricopa County Board of Supervisors Chairman Jack Sellers (District 1) highlighted the expansion of cooling center hours across the region and stressed the importance of public awareness about these available resources.
Clear Channel Outdoor, recognizing the potential to save lives, is supporting this campaign at no cost. “...every one of us wants to prevent a summer like 2023. We know thousands of Maricopa County residents and visitors see our billboards daily and it is our hope that those who are in need will respond to these messages by calling 211 for assistance," said Diane Veres, regional vice president, Clear Channel Outdoor Southwest & Midwest.
The effectiveness of cooling centers in 2023 was limited by public awareness, with many unaware of their existence or location, and lacking transportation to access these sites. In response, Maricopa County has also enhanced signage and extended the operating hours of these centers, now including weekends. Additionally, Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego emphasized the city's commitment to extended hour and overnight respite services to protect residents from the extreme heat.
Through proactive measures and public-private partnerships, Maricopa County's billboard campaign sets a precedent for other regions, demonstrating the vital role of community preparedness in extreme weather conditions. This initiative not only meets the general population's immediate needs but also underscores the critical importance of providing first responders with effective heat mitigation strategies.
A National Institute of Health study found that 75 percent of firefighters have experienced heat-related illness symptoms, which can include headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting and confusion. To combat this, EMS1 recommends these practical tips for emergency personnel:
Adjust physical training schedules to cooler early morning or late afternoon times, or consider taking days off.
Emphasize hydration before starting the day and keep additional water in vehicles.
Opt for electrolyte replacements; while a balanced diet is preferable, sports drinks can be beneficial when necessary.
Safely reduce personal protective equipment layers when possible to enhance heat loss
Monitor both human and K9 partners for early signs of heat-related stress such as lethargy or confusion. Take immediate action by seeking shade and hydrating if any symptoms are observed.
These guidelines are essential for ensuring the safety and efficiency of first responders as they continue to protect and serve during periods of intense heat.