San Diegans reminded to take precautions during heat wave

POWAY, Calif. (FOX 5/KUSI) — Firefighters are warning the public about the excessive heat expected this weekend.

With temperatures nearing 90 degrees in Poway, it’s hard to believe anyone could play basketball in the middle of the day in such heat.

“It doesn’t matter how hot it is; we just like running for about an hour or so, and then we go back to work,” said Brian Olow, a Scripps Ranch resident.

Olow says they are well aware of heat exhaustion, so they make sure to take breaks in the shade and stay hydrated.

“Water, things like that, other snacks, food — we are prepared for it,” he added.

Preparation is key. Just a few weeks ago, a 50-year-old woman died while hiking in excessive heat on a Black Mountain trail. Firefighters say everyone must know the signs of heat exhaustion so it doesn’t lead to heat stroke, which can be deadly.

“Nausea, dizziness, or even a severe headache — that’s when you want to take a break,” said Capt. Brent Pascua of Cal Fire.

Pascua says toddlers and the elderly have a harder time handling high heat.

“They just don’t regulate the heat as well as we do, so check on them, make sure they are hydrated, and not overheating as well,” Pascua said.

The scorching heat is also creating dangerous fire conditions, making it a busy summer for firefighters who are dealing with thick brush, much of it overgrown from the recent wet winter.

“It’s nice to get all that rain this winter and see everything green and lush, but that has since dried out, and it’s ready to burn. We have to be very careful because it is all fuel for wildfire,” Pascua said.

So whether you are going out for a hike or playing a sport, make sure to bring plenty of water.

“I forgot my water, which was a bad move on my part,” said hiker Dan Buchbinder.

“Take breaks when you can, too. Don’t go all the way through. We don’t play all the way through, maybe ten minutes at a time,” Olow advised.

Fire officials also say if you are a cigarette smoker, do not toss your cigarette out the window while you are driving. You could easily start a wildfire.

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