Now you know why we call this site 'Hot' Topics

It's so hot in Phoenix that:

1. Cows give evaporated milk.
2. Farmers serve crushed ice to chickens to keep them from laying hard-boiled eggs.
3. Both taps offer hot water.
4. Your hosts at the ASNE Reynolds High School Journalism Institute spend a good portion of the opening ceremony urging you to stay hydrated.

Welcome to Arizona in mid-June, when one can only joke about the kiln-like temperatures. But take heart: The heat's usually worse in July and August, when most of you will be back in cooler places, and the humidity is very, very low.

The National Weather Service offers these tips for staying safe in extreme heat:

• Slow down: Save strenuous activities for early or late. We'll keep you busy indoors most of the time, but your video assignment Thursday may take you outdoors for a spell.
• Dress for summer: Lightweight and light-colored clothing works best.
• Eat right: Proteins and other foods that increase your body's heat production dehydrate you faster.
• Drink plenty of water: Sound familiar?
• Spend more time in air-conditioned spaces: We have you covered.
• Avoid getting too much sun: Sunburn makes it harder for your body to dissipate heat.

I'll add my own tip: Seek shade whenever possible. Even going to lunch at Taylor Place you'll develop an instinct for minimizing your time in the sun.

Steve Elliott
Arizona State University
Phoenix