PHOENIX - With the heat rolling into triple digits, it's imperative that we understand how dangerous it can be.
When the thermostat begins to show numbers beyond 100 degrees, the environment affects our bodies in a certain way.
Normally, people stay cool by shedding unused energy. The heat flows from the body to the surface of the skin, then out into the air.
But, when Valley temperatures get really hot, the reverse effect happens, with heat going into the body.
The next line of defense is perspiration -- relieving the heat through sweat. However, triple-digit temperatures make this process harder, requiring much more water intake.
When our bodies don't get enough water, the heat gets trapped, raising our internal body temperature.
Dehydration sets in and bloodflow to the skin decreases, along with the ability to sweat.
A body temperature of 104 degrees indicates danger, 105 degrees is in the definition of heat stroke and a temperature of 107 degrees could result in irreversible organ damage or death.
The moral of the story: Be smart about the amount of time you spend in the heat and make sure to drink enough water, not only to keep you hydrated but to release the heat from your body.