July through August marks the start of the Monsoon Season in Arizona. This is a time of heavy rain and thunderstorms, caused by a shift in the weather patterns from the south.
Monsoons can be exciting and bring much needed rain to the dry hot summer desert, but they also can be very dangerous.
We at Rural/Metro Fire Department would like to urge you to use caution during this monsoon season. Here are some helpful tips to keep you and your family safe.
If you are caught in a dust storm remember to:
- When driving turn headlights on and slow to a prudent speed.
- If you pull off the road, get as far to the right as possible. Turn off the car and headlights, and set the parking brake.
- Keep your foot off the brake pedal – other drivers may think you’re a car in motion.
- If you can avoid driving in a dust storm –do. Visibility can become very low, heightening the possible for accidents.
- At home, stay away from glass windows as debris can break them, causing injury.
