Carson City weather: The summer heat is on this weekend and beyond

Hot weather continues into the weekend and next week for the Carson City region as high pressure keeps western Nevada in a dry air mass with high temperatures remaining above season averages.

High temperatures will remain 5-10 degrees above normal through the weekend with peak heating expected early next week, according to the National Weather Service. Rain is not in the forecast at least through the first half of next week.

High temperatures for the Carson City region will be in the low 90s through the weekend into next week.

With summer having officially arrived Thursday, it's always a good idea to brush-up on hot weather safety measures for people and pets.

The following information is from the Red Cross:
— Never leave children or pets alone in enclosed vehicles.

— Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid drinks with caffeine or alcohol.

— Keep cold water available and plentiful for your pets and keep them indoors out of the heat.

— Eat small meals and eat more often.

— Avoid extreme temperature changes.

— Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing. Avoid dark colors because they absorb the sun’s rays.

— Slow down, stay indoors and avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest part of the day.

— Postpone outdoor games and activities during the hottest times of the day.

— Use a buddy system when working in excessive heat.

— Take frequent breaks if you must work outdoors.

— Check on family, friends and neighbors who do not have air conditioning, who spend much of their time alone or who are more likely to be affected by the heat.

— Check on your animals frequently to ensure that they are not suffering from the heat.

Keep your cool around the pool with these water safety tips:
— Ensure that everyone in the family becomes water competent. That is, learn to swim well, know your limitations and how to recognize and avoid hazards, and understand how to help prevent and respond to emergencies around water.

— Adults should actively supervise children and stay within arm’s reach of young children and newer swimmers. Kids should follow the rules.

— Fence your pool in with four-sided fencing that is at least four-feet in height and use self-closing, self-latching gates.

— Always wear your U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket when on a boat and if in a situation beyond your skill level.

— Swim as a pair near a lifeguard’s chair: Everyone, including experienced swimmers, should swim with a buddy in areas protected by lifeguards. If in a location with no lifeguards, such as a residential pool, designate a “Water Watcher” to keep a close eye and constant attention on children in and around the water.

Get in the swim with these beach and swim safety tips:
— If you plan to swim in the ocean, a lake or river, be aware that swimming in these environments is different than swimming in a pool. Be sure you have the skills for these environments.

— Swim only at a beach with a lifeguard, within the designated swimming area. Obey all instructions and orders from lifeguards and ask them about local conditions.

— Make sure you swim sober and that you always swim with a buddy. Know your limitations and make sure you have enough energy to swim back to shore.

— Protect your neck: Don’t dive headfirst. Walk carefully into open waters. Watch out for and avoid aquatic life.

— If you are caught in a rip current, try not to panic. Signal to those on shore that you need assistance. Swim parallel to the shore until you are out of the current. Once you are free, swim toward the shore. If you can't swim to the shore, float or tread water until you are free of the rip current and then head toward shore.

Have a great time grilling when you use these safety tips:
— Always supervise a barbecue grill when in use. Don’t add charcoal starter fluid when coals have already been ignited.

— Never grill indoors: Not in your house, camper, tent or any enclosed area.

— Make sure everyone, including pets, stays away from the grill.

— Keep the grill out in the open, away from the house, deck, tree branches, or anything that could catch fire.

— Use the long-handled tools especially made for cooking on the grill to keep the chef safe.