Temperatures remain high throughout California, and locally, the National Weather Forecast has put a Heat Advisory in effect from Saturday, July 6th, through Wednesday, July 10th.
It is essential to stay vigilant and put plans in place to keep yourself, your pets, and vulnerable members of your family (like the very young and elderly) cool. Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room if you can, stay out of the sun during the hottest period of the day, and check up on relatives and neighbors who are heat vulnerable. Learn to recognize the signs of heat illness.
We want to stress that children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances. Car interiors in hot weather can reach lethal temperatures in a matter of minutes. If you are walking your dog on paved paths or roads, check the surface temperature before you head out. If it is too hot for your hand, it is too hot for their paws.
It is crucial to stay fire-safe during a heatwave. Avoid outdoor burning, properly dispose of cigarettes and matches, avoid power equipment that creates sparks, ensure vehicle parts do not drag on the ground, including towing chains, and avoid parking your vehicle over dry grass and vegetation.
Smoke haze may settle over our region due to surrounding California wildfires. It is an important reminder of how imperative it is to be ready for wildfire. Make sure that your family and friends are prepared if a wildfire were to happen nearby by taking the following steps:
- Sign up for emergency alerts. The Truckee Police Department, Truckee Fire Protection District and Nevada County Office of Emergency Services use the CodeRED Emergency Alert System as the primary method of communication during critical incidents, but you can check the TahoeAlerts page to ensure you are signed up to the right platforms for your location.
- Know your evacuation zone. Authorities will use Zone Names in emergency alerts, media releases, and social media to notify residents which areas are under an evacuation warning or order.
- Find your five and share your plan. By sharing your plan with others, you're not only ensuring your safety but also contributing to a supportive and connected community.
- Assemble a Go Bag for you and your family. This will give you a sense of security, knowing that you're prepared for any emergency.
- Stay informed and know where to get trusted information.