PHX Reporter

As temperatures continue to climb, Banner Health is reminding the community to be cautious. Doctors report an increase in contact burns during the summer months as temperatures consistently remain in the triple digits.

Dr. Patrick Godwin, emergency room physician and emergency department medical director at Banner Ocotillo Medical Center in Chandler, stated that higher temperatures result in more severe burns from individuals either falling or passing out.

“We see serious pavement burns once a week throughout the summer, if not more,” Dr. Godwin noted. “Those who have grown up in Phoenix or have been here a long time have likely experienced how quickly the soles of your feet can burn by walking barefoot. It’s not uncommon for us to see children with blistered feet from walking barefoot, either.”

Dr. Godwin explained that pavement can typically be 40 to 60 degrees hotter than the actual outside temperature. For example, on a 100-degree day, the pavement could reach between 140 to 160 degrees.

“Skin can burn in two minutes at 125 degrees, and within a minute at 130 degrees,” Dr. Godwin explained.

In addition to pavement, Dr. Godwin said artificial grass and pavers found around pools can also become extremely hot and cause burns.

He also advised being mindful that shoes made of plastic or certain synthetics may not withstand extreme pavement temperatures during high heat. He suggests wearing shoes made of more durable material in the summer and recommends closed-toed shoes for better protection.

If you witness someone fall or pass out on the ground, Dr. Godwin shared advice on how to help.

“Try to remove them from the hot pavement as soon as possible and rinse any areas of the body affected with cold water,” Dr. Godwin explained. “If the burn is severe, seek immediate medical attention. If treating at home, place a sterile dressing on it and apply anti-bacterial cream.”

Banner Health is one of the largest secular nonprofit healthcare systems in the country. In addition to 33 hospitals, Banner operates an academic medicine division, Banner – University Medicine, and Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center through a partnership with MD Anderson Cancer Center. Banner’s services include a health insurance division, employed physician groups, outpatient surgery centers, urgent care locations, home care and hospice services, retail pharmacies, stand-alone imaging centers, physical therapy and rehabilitation services, behavioral health services, a research division and a nursing registry. To facilitate easier access to healthcare services, all Banner-employed doctors are available for virtual visits; patients may also reserve spots at Banner Urgent Care locations and book appointments online with many Banner-employed doctors. Headquartered in Arizona, Banner Health has additional locations in California, Colorado, Nebraska, Nevada and Wyoming.

For more information visit bannerhealth.com.

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