City of Santa Fe Encourages Heat Safety Awareness During Summer Months

As temperatures rise during the summer season, the City of Santa Fe is encouraging residents and visitors to take precautions to protect themselves from heat-related illness and to take advantage of the many public facilities available throughout the community.

While Santa Fe has not historically experienced the prolonged extreme heat events common in other parts of New Mexico and the Southwest, city officials emphasize that heat-related illnesses can still occur, particularly among older adults, young children, outdoor workers, individuals experiencing homelessness and those with underlying health conditions.

"Santa Fe's climate is generally more moderate than many communities across the region, but even short periods of elevated temperatures can pose health risks," said Mayor Michael J. Garcia. "We encourage everyone to stay hydrated, limit strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest parts of the day and utilize the many public spaces available throughout our city to stay cool and safe."

According to health data, Santa Fe averages approximately 12 heat-related emergency department visits each year, with most years recording no heat-related fatalities. Even so, city departments and community partners remain prepared to coordinate services when temperatures reach levels that could threaten public health and safety.

Although the City does not maintain a formal heat response plan with temperature-specific activation thresholds, it utilizes an established emergency management framework that can be adapted during periods of extreme weather.

"When life-threatening temperatures occur, we work closely with community partners to ensure vulnerable residents have access to resources and support," said Community Services Director Sandra Emory. "Our goal is to connect people with cooling opportunities, transportation and outreach services while reminding all residents that city facilities are available as places to seek relief from the heat."

During periods of elevated temperatures, the City may coordinate efforts that include:

• Outreach by the Alternative Response Unit, Park Rangers and community-based street outreach teams.

• Distribution of hydration and cooling resources.

• Free transportation on Santa Fe Trails for individuals needing access to air-conditioned public facilities.

• Encouraging use of public spaces such as libraries, recreation centers, senior centers and other city facilities where residents can cool off during the day.

The City encourages residents and visitors to follow these heat safety tips:

• Drink water regularly, even before feeling thirsty.

• Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing and sunscreen when outdoors.

• Limit strenuous activity during the hottest hours of the day.

• Take frequent breaks in shaded or air-conditioned locations.

• Never leave children, older adults or pets unattended in vehicles.

• Check on neighbors, family members and others who may be vulnerable to heat-related illness.

• Close windows and cover them with curtains during the day and open windows at night when the temperature cools.

Santa Fe's libraries, recreation centers, swimming pools, parks and senior centers offer residents and visitors opportunities to stay active while finding relief from summer temperatures.

The City also encourages community members to remain informed about weather conditions and to seek medical attention if they experience symptoms of heat exhaustion or heat stroke, including dizziness, confusion, nausea, weakness or loss of consciousness.

For more information about City facilities and services, visit the City of Santa Fe website.

About the City of Santa Fe

The City of Santa Fe is committed to promoting public health, safety and quality of life through coordinated services, community partnerships and access to public resources for residents and visitors alike.

Peter Olson

City of Santa Fe

Communications Director

(505) 819-1062