Dress to Protect

Douglas Washington

Not everyone in Phoenix has the luxury of working indoors in the summertime. As they say, “People gotta work,” and some have unexpected ways to beat the heat.

People trying to beat the heat dress for it and try to stay hydrated. They wear shorts, flip-flops, and tank tops. Workers on the other hand, may have to wear uniforms. Many of the workers that we came across were dressed in long sleeves and pants. Electrician Tereeq Smith, said that he wears the long sleeves to protect his skin from burns. His coworker, Earl Bartnik, said that his solution is simply drinking tons of water.

Gardener, Raoul Menneti, works at the Sheraton Hotel in the heart of Phoenix. His strategy is also wearing long pants, staying in the shade and starting work as early as 5 am before the temperatures really climb.

Drinking water to stay hydrated was a common tip from all the workers. Daniel Garcia, a waiter at the Corner Bakery Café on Third Street, not only stays hydrated himself, he works to keep his customer’s drinks full. Even if he’s not comfortable, it’s important that they are.

Postal worker, Douglas Washington, wears a wide-brimmed hat, carries a handkerchief and a water bottle. Washington recommends an old-fashioned sweat to cool off while driving in his mail truck that is not air-conditioned.

By: 

Bridget Parker, Seton-LaSalle Catholic High School, Pittsburgh, PA

Denise Powell, Bok Technical high School, Philadelphia, PA

Stephanie Platter, Kings High School, Seattle, Wash.