Summer is pretty much here, at least early summer has arrived with its still moderately warm temperatures. So with still tolerable temperatures this could be the most enjoyable time of summer — but it can also be the most dangerous because people may think the really hot weather hasn’t come, yet, so they think they can still do (stupid) things that really shouldn’t be done.
Like jump into the Carson River or any river. Or leave their pets in a car. Or walk or hike in areas with rattlesnakes without thinking about it. The list could go on, but these are the kinds of things people tend to do without thinking about it I can think of off the top of my head.
As for me, I try to psyche myself out thinking I like the heat, so I tell myself I can’t wait for the 95 to 100 degree heat to lie out in the asphalt so I can soak in the heat. It never works.
You all know the drill, plenty of sunscreen, plenty of water/fluids to stay hydrated, etc. Those who choose to read this Popcorn Stand know how much I love Pete the shih-tzu and Tuf-Tuf (you know Sir Tuffington something or other) the Jack Russell. I try to avoid taking them anywhere where they may even have to spend a second in the car, but if I do, I never do it in the afternoon, always do it in the morning, park in the shade, leave the windows rolled down a little bit and am never gone for more than a couple of minutes.
And I know there are all kinds of resources to help pets deal with rivers and rattlesnakes and such, but Tuf-Tuf, Pete and I just figure the safest thing to do is to avoid places like that all together in the first place.
If you’re taking advantage of some of our wonderful trails such as at Centennial Park or Prison Hill, note the temperatures have become hot enough for rattlesnakes to be out and about. And of course there are the coyotes during this time of year, especially in the early morning and evening hours.
Again these are just a few things off the top of my head to watch out for and I figure you readers know many more. Just show common sense. Stay safe Carson City.
— Charles Whisnand