Weather Preparation 

Whatever the time of year, carry adequate clothing, for sudden or unexpected changes in weather.  Such changes may result in a prolonged period of time in the outdoors; so, also carry food and water.  Due to less atmosphere at higher altitudes, the sun is more intense and sunscreen becomes more necessary.

Mountain Driving

If driving in mountainous areas from September to May, it is a good idea to carry tire chains, warm clothing and a roadside safety kit.  It is also a good idea to keep your gas tank above half full.  Drive an appropriate speed for the conditions and allow extra time to maneuver or stop.

Recreation at Higher Elevations

At higher elevations associated with the mountainous areas, the air is often dryer and thinner.  As a result, we frequently have patients suffering from dehydration.  If you are not used to recreating at higher elevations, we recommend you ease into your activities, allowing for rests and water brakes.  Staying hydrated can be more challenging at altitude.  Pre-hydrate the day before you plan to be at elevation and continue an increased fluid intake while here.  Keep in mind that soft drinks and alcohol are counter productive to remaining hydrated.

Fire Extinguishers

In residential dwellings, fire extinguishers are recommended on every level as well as in high-risk areas such as kitchens and garages.  Most fire extinguishers available at a local hardware store are not intended to be serviced, but should still be visually inspected by the occupants on a routine basis.  An ABC fire extinguisher is useful for most fires in a home.

Commercial fire extinguishers are required according to the Uniform Fire Code.  It is recommended that a certified fire extinguisher contractor perform fire extinguisher selection, installation and maintenance.  Contractors can be found under Fire Extinguishers in the Yellow Pages of most phone books.

Fore more information on the use of fire extinguishers, you can go to http://www:fireextinguishers.com.  If you would like to schedule fire extinguisher training for your business, homeowners association or other group, please contact Squaw Valley Fire Department to arrange a class.

Smoke Detectors

Smoke detectors have been proven as a simple and effective, early warning device.  Most fire related fatalities occur when occupants are sleeping.  Smoke detectors are intended to alert occupants of a threat in time to make a successful exit.  Smoke detectors work most effectively when properly positioned and cared for.  Batteries should be changed in the fall when you set your clocks back.

Carbon Monoxide

Carbon monoxide (CO) is an odorless, colorless, deadly gas.  It is also called the silent killer because it can kill you before you see it, taste it or smell it.  At lower levels of exposure, it can cause health problems.  Younger (including infants and fetuses) and older populations, as well as those with heart or lung conditions, are often the most at risk to CO poisoning.  CO poisoning can also cause headaches, fatigue, nausea, dizzy spells, confusion and irritability.  Later stages of CO poisoning can cause vomiting, loss of consciousness and eventually brain damage or death.

Carbon monoxide is a by-product of combustion of fossil fuels.  Automobile fumes and common household appliances such as furnaces, space heaters, clothes dryers, ranges, ovens, water heaters, charcoal grills, fireplaces and wood burning stoves.  If the appliance is properly vented to the outside and it is functioning correctly there should be no health risk.  However, CO problems occur when furnace heat exchangers crack or vents and chimneys become blocked.  In the winter months, snow accumulation around a house, or snow sliding from a roof that damages a vent, can compromise appliance venting and result in dangerous levels of CO.

It is recommended that a minimum of one CO detector be installed on every level of a home.

Carbon monoxide detectors are available free to Squaw Valley Homeowners.  Contact the Squaw Valley Fire Department to obtain your detector.