Every year there are news stories about people dying in the desert in Arizona. This has become a big issue with many Latin American migrants being the victims. However, anyone who ventures into the desert must be prepared or suffer the same fate. There have been a number of occasions when I have been caught without enough water under the circumstances. One day, when the temperature was over 95 degrees F I lost six pounds to water loss alone. What may be a pleasant outing, can quickly turn into a challenge of survival, if you are not prepared.
Early symptoms of dehydration include thirst, loss of appetite, dry skin, skin flushing, dark colored urine, dry mouth, fatigue, and even, chills. Once your heart rate and respiration increase, and your body temperature increases, you are in serious trouble. When loss of bodily fluids reaches 10% you are in serious danger of dying.
The first and best rule is do not venture into the desert without adequate preparation. Make sure you carry enough water for everyone in your group, at least a gallon a day per person. There are certain times of the year when the desert experience is just not worth the risk. The Superstition Wilderness Area is a wonderful place to hike, but not between the months of May and September. Let good sense dictate when and where you go.
When you do go into the desert, make sure you tell someone your plans and your return date or time. When you do go into the desert, take those things that will be helpful in an emergency; a tool kit, a shovel, spare parts, extra engine oil and coolant.
With today's off road vehicles, you can get into trouble by having an accident or a breakdown only a short few minute's drive from the highway. What takes only a few minutes drive on an ATV can take hours to walk out. Without water, the walk may take the rest of your life.
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