The Phoenix Parks and Recreation Board voted Thursday evening to expand the city’s heat safety trail program that closes popular trails during the hottest days of the year.

The program will now be in effect all year long after previously running from May until October. Access will be restricted to Echo Canyon and Cholla Trails at Camelback Mountain and all trails associated with Piestewa Peak from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on days when the National Weather Service issues an excessive heat warning.

The approved changes are effective immediately.

During times when trail access is restricted, parking lot gates will be closed and signs will be posted. Phoenix Park Rangers will be visible at those locations to remind and educate trail users about the restrictions.

Closure information also will be communicated through the Parks and Recreation Department’s website and social media accounts, and to local resorts and hotels.

“Ensuring the health, safety, and well-being of our hikers and first responders while accessing our trails is our top priority,” Kelly Dalton, Phoenix Parks and Recreation Board chair, shared in a press release. “The action we took tonight is another important step in protecting individuals from the devasting effects that can result from hiking in extreme heat.”

During the Valley’s warm weather months, and regardless of an excessive heat watch being in effect, it is recommended trail users hike during the early morning or evening hours when it is cooler and there is more shade.

“The central focus of Phoenix Fire is the safety and wellbeing of the customers we service,” Capt. Rob McDade stated. “It has become clear some hikers need rescuing even when they start their hike before 11 a.m. As a result, we believe the extended closure of trails will better protect everyone involved.”

Residents can sign up to receive email alerts when trails are closed due to excessive heat.

For the safety of pets, dogs are prohibited on any city of Phoenix trail when the temperature is 100 degrees or warmer. The Arizona Humane Society advises that temperatures in the 90s are also unsafe for pets to be outdoors.