Officials Warn of Fire, Heat Dangers

The National Weather Service has issued a Hazardous Weather Outlook warning for the greater part of today through Tuesday, October 2. According to the report, the combination of locally breezy conditions, hot temperatures, very low humidities, and very dry fuels have brought extreme fire danger to Southern California.

Record high temperatures are likely today as valley temperatures may reach as high as 108 degrees. Tuesday sees a bit of breeze from onshore winds, although conditions are predicted to remain hot and dry for areas away from the coast.

“We are at a critical fire danger and urge the public to use caution both when using landscaping equipment or vehicles near brush that can easily spark vegetation,” said Pasadena Fire Department Public Information Officer Lisa Derderian in an email today.

According to Derderian, although the city has not raised its alert status to Red Flag, officials are urging the public to be cautious of their actions as well as mindful of their surroundings.

“Drink before you’re thirsty, if you wait it may be too late,” reminded Derderian. “Keep kids inside during recess or sports activity to error on side of caution and if you have an outside job, stay hydrated and take more breaks in the shade or indoors.”

Pasadena residents and businesses with any power emergencies are advised to call Pasadena Water and Power Department at (626) 744-4673. For water-related emergencies, call (626) 744-4138.

City officials also offer the following reminders and precautions:

If possible, stay indoors in an air conditioned environment, especially the young and the elderly. If your home or apartment is not air conditioned, consider going to an enclosed shopping mall, a public library or a designated cooling center.

Remember to check on your neighbors, family and friends—especially the elderly—to make sure they are OK. Take them extra water or a cool beverage.

Never leave anyone unattended in closed vehicles, including pets!

Make sure your pets also have easy access to water and a cool place to stay.

Keep air conditioners set to about 78 degrees.

Close blinds and drapes to block out direct heat. Use energy efficient fans as alternative.

Use major appliances in early morning or after 7 p.m., when energy demand is lower.

Turn off lights, air conditioners, computers, TVs and other electronics when not in use.

Set refrigerator to 37 degrees, clean coils regularly & unplug unused secondary fridges.

COOLING CENTERS
In Pasadena, the Pasadena Senior Center, 85 E. Holly St., is the only pre-designated Cooling Center. The Senior Center is open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday to Friday; 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Saturday and from 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Sunday.

Visit www.publichealth.lacounty.gov to find other designated cooling centers throughout Los Angeles County.

PASADENA PUBLIC LIBRARY

While not official Cooling Centers, the Pasadena Public Library and other local public libraries offer an enjoyable, air conditioned respite from the heat. The Pasadena Public Library offers these sites and hours of operation:

Central Library, 285 E. Walnut Street, (626) 744-4066. Open 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., Monday to Thursday; 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Sunday.