Death Valley in the 1930s

Road Workers & Guidebook Writers put the National Monument on the Map
by Cheri Rae

Warm Weather Hints

Take Care of Yourself

*Stay away from the salt flats in hot weather. Ground temperatures can exceed 200 degrees, and distances are deceiving in the clear, dry air.

*Thirst is a warming of your body’s need for water. Carry plenty of water—one gallon per day—and drink it freely, every hour or so.

*Salt is not a substitute for water; ingesting it will not reduce your perspiration rate.

*Clothing protects from the sun. Wear a shirt, sunglasses, sturdy shoes and a broad-brimmed hat.

*Wind speeds up your evaporation rate; avoid it.

*Always hike with at least one other person.

Take Care of your Car

*Watch the temperature of your car motor. Do not “lug” the motor on grades; shift to a lower gear instead.

*If the car stats to overheat, turn off the air conditioner.

*To cool the motor: Turn into the breeze; don’t stop the motor; while it is running at a fast idle speed slowly pour sufficient water over the radiator core to cool it. Cover the radiator cap when removing it to protect yourself from the heat. Slowly fill the radiator to the proper level and proceed.

*Do not deflate tires.

*Check gasoline and oil before every journey. Services are available only at Stovepipe Wells, Furnace Creek Ranch and Scotty’s Castle.

*If trouble develops, stay with your car on paved roads.