EL PASO, TEXAS (KFOX14\/CBS4) \u2014 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.<\/p>\n
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. <\/p>\n
Jaed Martinez, an El Paso Parks and Recreation groundskeeper, said, \u201cWe\u2019re clocking in at 6.30.\u201d Martinez said crews move between parks handling routine maintenance, adding, \u201cWe go here to La Placita, cut some branches. Try and edge whenever it needs it. Blow, gather some trash.\u201d<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
Emily Schmalz reports on Downtown El Paso crews tend San Jacinto Plaza as triple-digit heat continues this week (Credit: KDBC)<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
RECOMMENDED: Triple-digit heat grips El Paso, prompting safety precautions for outdoor workers<\/a><\/p>\n Martinez said the crews try to complete the most physically demanding work earlier in the day. <\/p>\n \u201cWe try to get the heavier part of the job done in the morning,\u201d Martinez said. <\/p>\n That way when the sun really hits, like at 12 after lunch, it\u2019s just more just pick up and on the easier side.<\/p>\n Espinoza said frequent breaks and hydration are key to getting through long hours outside..<\/p>\n \u201cWe 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\u2019s a little fresher. Drink a lot of water for sure and electrolytes,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n Jacob Ruiz, an El Paso Parks and Recreation park area supervisor, said crews are equipped with basic heat-safety gear. <\/p>\n \u201cWe make sure all our crews have water jugs, they have wide-brim hats, sunscreen, long-sleeve shirts,\u201d Ruiz said.<\/p>\n Ruiz said supervisors also monitor conditions and will delay work when necessary.<\/p>\n \u201cWhen it\u2019s gotten a little bit too hot we\u2019ll go ahead and we\u2019ll pull them out or we\u2019ll absolutely reschedule a task for a couple days later or even a week later,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n