EL PASO, TEXAS (KFOX14/CBS4) — Triple-digit temperatures in El Paso are forcing outdoor workers to take extra precautions to stay safe during the hottest parts of the day, including advertising sign holders who spend hours on street corners trying to catch drivers’ attention.

Along Zaragoza Road in far East El Paso, one advertising sign holder said he typically works four-hour shifts during peak afternoon heat.

“They’re about four hours,” he said.

I pick from 12 to 4 and yeah, I’d say it’s pretty good.

Emily Schmalz reports on Triple-digit heat grips El Paso, prompting safety precautions for outdoor workers (Credit: KFOX14/CBS4)

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The worker, who was born and raised in El Paso, said the desert heat is something he has grown accustomed to over the years. Now working for Mattress Liquidators, he spends four hours at a time standing outside along Zaragoza Road.

He said dressing for the conditions is key to staying safe in the heat.

While he wore jeans, a lightweight long-sleeve shirt and a sun hat, he said most of his coworkers choose shorts to help stay cool during the hottest parts of the day.

Although he has only been with the company for two weeks, he said he has already learned the importance of staying hydrated and protecting himself from the sun.

“I always get sunscreen on me before I go to work and every hour or so I shift towards my water bottle,” he said.

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He also pointed to his clothing choices as part of his strategy for working outside.

“So the hat here is just good for blocking out the sun in general,” he said.

This shirt is nice and loose so air flows in there. It’s bright color, it keeps away the sun and it’s also long sleeve so it protects the arm.

As summer temperatures continue to rise, staying hydrated, seeking shade when possible and protecting skin can help prevent heat-related illness.

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