With summer arriving in another six weeks, the Cottonwood Fire Department is warning residents of the Verde Valley to be prepared for hotter weather using presentations on the CFD website. One of the top concerns for the department, staff stated on the website, are wildfires in the area that can be started if people are not vigilant, especially with matches and lighters.
The department urged people to dispose of used matches and cigarette butts in a closed container or cup of water and to keep lighters and matches out of the reach of children. For campers, CFD recommends making sure campfires are completely extinguished before leaving an area and avoiding parking a hot car or other machine in dry grass, a fuel source for fires, according to the website. CFD advised against letting gasoline or motor oil spill onto grass or other vegetation and repeated that tractors, off-road vehicles and equipment being used in wooded areas, such as chainsaws, must have spark arrestors.
CFD also posted that it was important to keep water nearby to combat dehydration. Common signs of dehydration can include dry mouth, urinating and sweating less than usual, dark-colored urine, dry skin or feeling tired and dizzy. The CFD website suggested confusion, fainting, lack of urination, rapid heartbeat, rapid breathing or shock were to occur and avoiding drinks that contain sugar and caffeine. CFD likewise posted that those enjoying the river should avoid drug and alcohol use on the grounds of impaired judgment, balance and coordination that could increase the risk of accidents and reminded recreators to check weather conditions and river flow before going into the river.
CFD encouraged hikers to avoid the hotter parts of the day from noon to 3p.m. and to hike at night in the dark instead, or to stay in the shade. They also recommended loose, breathable clothing and telling others about plans in advance in case of emergencies
