Dignity Health’s top safety tips for a hole-in-one experience at the WM Phoenix Open

Emergency medicine doctor tees up advice on hydration, responsible sips, and sun safety

PHOENIX, Ariz. (Feb. 5, 2026) – The WM Phoenix Open is teeing off today and crowds of people from around the country will be in Scottsdale to witness the “Greatest Show on Grass.” But with all that sunshine, desert heat, and beverages flowing freely, comes the need for precautions.

Evan Leibner, MD, a Dignity Health emergency medicine physician, says a simple gameplan can keep you out of the sand trap and more importantly, out of the hospital.

The number one thing to monitor: your hydration levels. “Drink plenty of water before leaving your home, that way you’re at a good starting point,” recommends Dr. Leibner. “Continue to hydrate throughout the day in an effort to regulate your body temperature while out in the sun for an extended period of time and balance out any other drinks you plan to consume.”

The other kind of beverage that you want to monitor your consumption of? Alcohol. “Keep an eye on how many drinks you are having and how quickly you are finishing them,” Dr. Leibner adds. “Excessive alcohol intake can exacerbate dehydration and put you at a greater risk of suffering from heat-related illnesses. It can also impair your judgement and coordination, increasing your risk of potential slips, trips, falls and other accidents near and around the grandstands.” Designating a sober driver or utilizing a rideshare app to get home safely is also strongly recommended for those who plan to drink.

With sun and temperatures in the high seventies in the forecast this weekend, don’t forget to protect your skin. “People travel from all over the nation to participate in this one of a kind golf tournament, which means they might not be used to the Arizona sun,” said Dr. Leibner. It’s important to apply sunscreen at least 20 minutes before heading out and re-apply throughout the day.”

Lastly, watch out for signs of heat illness and know when to seek help. “If  you start feeling dizzy, weak, or light-headed, don’t ignore it,” urges Dr. Leibner. “Get in the shade, drink water, and try to cool down. If you aren’t feeling better after several minutes, or you end up vomiting or passing out, call 911 or go to the ER. When it comes to the Valley heat, you can’t be too careful.”

By proactively managing your hydration, enjoying alcohol responsibly and protecting yourself from the sun, you’ll be well-prepared to soak in all the excitement from the tournament safely.

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