Emergency responders warn sunny weather can come with dangerous price

Published 1:30 am Saturday, August 13, 2016

EVERETT — The forecast is full of hot, sunny days this week, and officials are reminding people to be safe on or near the water.

The National Weather Service is expecting temperatures in the high 70s and possibly low 80s through Friday in the Everett area. The temperature climbed quickly to reach 80 degrees Saturday morning.

The sunshine means more people are likely to head to beaches, rivers, lakes and up into the mountains along the many hiking trails in Snohomish County.

It also means that emergency responders are preparing to help people who find themselves in danger. In most cases, dangerous situations are avoidable, said Lt. Rodney Rochon, who heads up swift water rescue and the marine unit for the Snohomish County Sheriff’s Office.

“Search and rescue crews across the state are standing by to rescue those in trouble, but everyone on or near the water can do their part by wearing a life jacket, not drinking and boating, and watching out for each other,” he said.

It’s important for parents to keep a close eye on children, Rochon said. Don’t let them wander out of sight.

He is reminding hikers to pack basic emergency supplies, even for day trips. Among the items people should have with them are water, food, first aid supplies and sun protection.

It’s also a good idea to share travel plans with a friend or family member who isn’t going on the trip. That way, if a hiker or boater doesn’t return on time, someone else knows where they planned to be and when they planned to be there and have license information on the car or boat they were using.

Don’t leave children or pets unattended in vehicles. Even when the temperature is closer to 70 degrees than 80, the interior of cars and trucks parked in the sun can heat up to dangerous temperatures.

Kari Bray: 425-339-3439; kbray@heraldnet.com