Well above average temperatures with generally dry conditions are continuing. In addition to drying out vegetation and elevating wildfire risk, this weather can also lead to heat illness. Penn Valley Fire reports that they have already responded to several heat-related medical calls this year. If you plan to get outdoors, make sure to check the weather first, and bring plenty of water and shade. Headaches, dizziness, extreme sweating, nausea and confusion are just some of the signs of heat illness.
And remember to care for our furry friends in this hot weather! Dogs in hot cars and on hot surfaces, such as asphalt and truck bed liners, just don’t mix. Nevada County Animal Control Officer Stefanie Geckler took some surface temperature readings on a 91-degree day in Grass Valley. A truck bed liner was measured at 153 degrees and asphalt was 132! Dogs are just as susceptible to heat illness and burns as we are. Stay cool and stay safe.