EL PASO, TEXAS (KFOX14/CBS4) — As triple-digit temperatures continue across the Borderland, El Paso city groundskeepers are still working outdoors to keep parks maintained, starting their days early and adjusting tasks to reduce the risk of heat-related illness.

Crews were working at San Jacinto Plaza in Downtown El Paso, where groundskeepers said staying safe in the heat begins long before the sun reaches its hottest point.

Jaed Martinez, an El Paso Parks and Recreation groundskeeper, said, “We’re clocking in at 6.30.” Martinez said crews move between parks handling routine maintenance, adding, “We go here to La Placita, cut some branches. Try and edge whenever it needs it. Blow, gather some trash.”

Before many residents begin their day, groundskeepers are already out maintaining parks across the city. Martinez and Debby Espinoza help care for 12 parks, servicing up to four each day, with San Jacinto Plaza receiving daily attention.

Emily Schmalz reports on Downtown El Paso crews tend San Jacinto Plaza as triple-digit heat continues this week (Credit: KDBC)

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Martinez said the crews try to complete the most physically demanding work earlier in the day.

“We try to get the heavier part of the job done in the morning,” Martinez said.

That way when the sun really hits, like at 12 after lunch, it’s just more just pick up and on the easier side.

Espinoza said frequent breaks and hydration are key to getting through long hours outside..

“We take breaks here and there whenever we need to rehydrate; we wear hats, we wear our masks and sometimes we wet them that way it’s a little fresher. Drink a lot of water for sure and electrolytes,” she said.

Jacob Ruiz, an El Paso Parks and Recreation park area supervisor, said crews are equipped with basic heat-safety gear.

“We make sure all our crews have water jugs, they have wide-brim hats, sunscreen, long-sleeve shirts,” Ruiz said.

Ruiz said supervisors also monitor conditions and will delay work when necessary.

“When it’s gotten a little bit too hot we’ll go ahead and we’ll pull them out or we’ll absolutely reschedule a task for a couple days later or even a week later,” he said.

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From trimming trees to operating heavy blowers, groundskeepers said the work becomes more challenging under the summer sun, making it important to recognize when it’s time to stop and cool down.

“The blowers are heavy so that makes you sweat even more and hot,” Espinoza said.

Once we’re really sweating, I guess my body could tell when I need that break.

With triple-digit temperatures expected to continue throughout the week, the heat advisory is a reminder that dangerous conditions are expected to persist.

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