As temperatures rise, the Queen Creek Fire and Medical Department, in partnership with For Our Town, is hosting a bottled-water drive to provide needed hydration to those most at risk during the extreme heat. 

Queen Creek Fire Station 1, located at 20678 Civic Parkway, will serve as the donation drop-off location with QCFMD distributing water bottles to individuals in need, according to a town press release.

The goal is to collect 250 cases of bottled water during the drive. 

For Our Town is a community initiative the brings together nonprofits, faith-based organizations, businesses and schools to tackle Queen Creek’s most pressing issues. it is a partnership between the Queen Creek Chamber of Commerce and the town of Queen Creek.

The Center for Disease Control (CDC) and Prevention provides tips for preventing heat-related illnesses:

• Drink plenty of fluids and don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink water
• Avoid liquids that cause you to lose more body fluids, such as alcoholic and sugary drinks
• Stay indoors, if possible
• Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing
• Limit outdoor activity to morning and evening hours
• If you must be outdoors, rest often in a shady area
• Protect yourself from the sun by wearing a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses and plenty of sunscreen

Children and pets should never be left alone in a vehicle, especially during the summer months. The ‘look before you lock’ campaign serves as a reminder of the dangers of a hot vehicle. 

The Humane Society provides the following tips for keeping pets safe in the heat:

• Keep pets indoors when possible
• Limit outdoor exercise to early morning or evening
• Avoid long walks, hikes and excessive play
• Provide pets with extra, cool water sources
• Consider dog booties for hot pavement 

This is also the time of year when cooling off in the pool becomes more popular. Always practice the ABCDs of water safety:

• Adult supervision
• Barriers between children and water
• Classes in CPR and swim lessons
• Devices near water including rescue rings, hooks and lifejackets 

For more safety tips, visit QueenCreekAZ.gov/SafetyTips.