Our fabulous spring weather is now a memory, and the summer heat we’ve all expected is back. Those of us who have lived in Cave Creek a long time are used to the regular 100-degree-plus temperatures. If you are new to the area or just visiting, welcome, but be aware, hiking in the heat may kill you. Use common sense and only go out for a hike in the early or late hours of the day. Bring and drink plenty of water, and protect yourself from the sun. Every year, as the weather gets warmer, locals and visitors from northern states and Canada go for hikes, unprepared for the dangers of the heat. This lack of common sense by people who think one bottle of water is enough or believe the heat won’t affect them is only putting themselves and our public safety personnel at risk.
Last year, Cave Creek visitors from Canada wanted a short hike in the beautiful Spur Cross, not realizing the inherent dangers of Arizona summers. Unfortunately, one perished, and if people don’t use common sense and preparedness, it will happen again.
Because we are entering the summer months, we must also use common sense about wildfires. Hopefully, residents have heeded the advice and cleared brush and flammables around their property. We’ve all seen the photos of homes spared in a wildfire when the yards are brush-free, next to a property that wasn’t. Our firefighters have a good chance of saving a home in a wildfire if the invasive plants, brush, and trees are cleared away next to a home or structure. Deserts burn, but your homes don’t need to.
The Town works closely with Daisy Mountain Fire District, the state and county fire divisions, and the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office to ensure residents get the most timely and accurate information about public safety events. Be sure to follow the Town’s website, Facebook, and Twitter pages for updates in the event of a regional emergency.
If you haven’t already, now is a good time to update or register for Code Red. Code Red will alert you about a potential evacuation from wildfire, flooding, or other public safety activity in the area. Go to https://cavecreekaz.gov/CodeRed and register today.
Bob Morris
May0r, Cave Creek
