Utahns look to escape the heat this Labor Day weekend

AMERICAN FORK, Utah — A record-breaking heat wave is hitting Utah heading into Labor Day weekend, but that’s not stopping people from getting outside.

If anything, it just takes a little more preparation.

For many families, the holiday weekend means a chance to get outside and go camping.

Kara Booth, her husband and her children, are spending time in American Fork Canyon.

“We loved there was a creek right here,” Booth said.

They said one way they’re planning on beating the heat is by hiking to Timpanogos Cave. National Park Service officials say the cave stays at a chilly 42 degrees.

I met another “Kara” today! 😆

She and her family are camping in the Uintas.

How they’re beating the heat?

Camping under lots of shade, near a creek, and taking a hike inside the @TimpCaveNPS where it stays cool ⛺️🥾🥾

(42 degrees, to be exact!) @KSL5TV pic.twitter.com/feoE2LX83E

— Karah Brackin (@KB_ON_TV) September 2, 2022

The Booth family was also getting creative in how their kids can try and stay cool.

“We brought up their scooters, so hopefully they can get some kind of wind on them as they’re up here in the heat,” Booth said.

Common sense goes a long way, too, in keeping cool.

“Shorts, just hanging out in the cool canyon,” camper Wes Lowham said.

“The trees help a lot,” Booth said.

Before heading out, the Utah Division of Emergency Management said it is a smart move that people know the weather conditions so they can prepare.

Don’t forget to hydrate!!!

Drinking WATER is so important. 💦💧💦

See you outside this weekend! @KSL5TV! pic.twitter.com/AeZshMaYGr

— Karah Brackin (@KB_ON_TV) September 2, 2022

“Knowledge is power and being aware of the situation before you even head out, I think, is a very important first step,” said Wade Mathews with the Utah Division of Emergency Management.

For instance, location matters, as the highs in the sun versus camping in the Uintas means chillier mornings.

“I told my wife we’re going to Utah. Bring a jacket even though there’s a heat wave. It’s nice and cool,” said Lowham.

The Utah Division of Emergency Management said light-colored and loose clothing will help you beat the heat. Eating light meals is also a good idea.

Another reminder that your t-shirt color can determine how hot it feels outside. #utwx 🥵 pic.twitter.com/6FX5yIqFi0

— Matthew Johnson (@KSL_Matt) August 30, 2022

“As we’re eating, our body creates heat as well and kind of eating light meals helps keep that settled down a little bit,” Mathews said.

Mathews said staying hydrated and drinking water is also extremely important in the heat. That, plus drinking water even when you’re not thirsty is a proactive move.