Friday, August 15, 2008

Weekend Preparedness Thoughts

After a busy day for fire fighters here in Clark County, we remain under a "red flag warning" for through Saturday evening. This means that the brush is very dry and susceptible to catching fire pretty easily around the area.

There are 2 things you can do to help our community as we wait out the heat:
1) If you smoke in a vehicle, PLEASE do not throw burning cigarette butts out a window!
2) Consider carrying some extra water in your car as you travel anywhere.

As was visible today with a 24-mile traffic tie-up in Clark County, we experienced a number of 9-1-1 calls relating to folks waiting in traffic who became quickly dehydrated in the heat. Your air conditioner in your car may not hold up during a multi-hour traffic delay and with 100 degree heat, even the most healthy people can begin to suffer the effects of heat exhaustion.

People and animals who are easily heat affected (including pregnant mothers, diabetics, children, elderly and pets) can get into trouble very quickly. While always a good idea to be prepared for emergencies in your vehicle through a 72-hour kit, please particularly consider packing some extra beverages this weekend and stay as cool as you can.

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