OUTDOOR BRIEFS

TAKE IT EASY

Safety tips for the dealing with the heat

As summer approaches so to do the warm temperatures. For outdoor recreationists, these summer temperatures are a real safety concern, one that must be dealt with appropriately if they are going to avoid heat-related health issues.

"Safety should always be considered whenever one is recreating outdoors, but it is especially important during the summer months because heat can kill," said Margie Klein, a conservation educator for the Nevada Department of Wildlife who offered the following tips for summer safety.

Always carry water -- at least one gallon per person per day. Whether you are actively hiking or fishing in a relaxing spot you still need to replenish liquids, and soda is not a suitable replacement for water. Drinks such as Gatorade are good because they replenish minerals and carbohydrates.

Keep yourself as cool as possible. A moist neckerchief tied loosely around the neck can keep you cool as the moisture evaporates. New products that use this technique include cooling bands that you soak in water, and spray bottles with fans attached. Carry a towel to dry yourself off.

Protect yourself from the sun. There is a broad spectrum of sunscreens available with an SPF of 15 or higher. They are your best bet for skin protection. It's also good to wear protective clothing such as long pants and long-sleeve shirts that are loose fitting and light weight. Light colors are best. Klein also recommends wearing sunglasses and a hat.

Don't overexert yourself. Short rest periods help to conserve energy and allow you to keep going in the heat. The shorter the exertion period, the shorter the recovery time will be. Even if your recreation choice is more passive, break up the routine by occasionally moving to cooler places. It's also a good idea to bring along something you can use to make shade, because it can't always be found in the desert.

Insects can be a real issue during the warmer months. Their bites can not only cause significant skin irritation but can also carry diseases and other illness causing bacteria. Wear protective clothing and wear quality insect repellent. Be careful of repellents that come in flavored scents because they can actually attract some insect species such as bees.

Never go on excursions alone and always file a trip plan before you leave. No matter where you are going or what you plan on doing, it is never a good idea to go by yourself. By including at least one other person, there will always be someone to provide assistance should an emergency situation arise, said Martin Olson, hunter education coordinator for NDOW.

Cell phones are great, especially if you get stranded somewhere or need immediate assistance. But in isolated places, they're only as good as their battery and the availability of coverage. Two-way radios are also a good tool to have along.

FREE CLASS

Fly-tying workshop scheduled for May 27

Want to tie your own fishing flies? The Nevada Department of Wildlife will be having a free fly-tying workshop at 6 p.m. May 27. Participants in this hands-on, entry-level course will learn the basics of tying flies, including equipment, materials, terminology, and techniques for creating flies. All equipment and materials will be provided. The class will be at the NDOW office located at 4747 Vegas Drive. For registration and more information contact Chris Pietrafeso, 486-5127, ext. 3850.

BEFORE GOING TO CALIFORNIA

Nevada boaters urged to watch for mussels

Nevada boaters who boat across state lines in California could face restrictions and mandatory inspections for quagga and zebra mussels at the state border, park entrances and at boat ramps as California works to contain the spread of these species.

"We feel a duty to inform our boaters who may travel across state lines that they may encounter delays, inspections and even be turned back at some boating destinations," said Rob Buonamici, Chief Game Warden with the Nevada Department of Wildlife. "The presence of quagga and zebra mussels in water bodies is a very serious issue, and we want to work closely with California to make sure infections from Lake Mead and Mohave do not spread further into California and Nevada waters."

Before they travel to their destination, boaters are advised to contact the waterway management agency to obtain updated information on any restrictions. The California Department of Boating and Waterways will provide information on its Web site (www.BoatSmarter.com) about waterway restrictions and closures due to the infestation of quagga and zebra mussels.

"We want to keep the quagga and zebra mussels out, but we also want to continue to encourage boating and tourism on California's beautiful lakes and waterways," said Raynor Tsuneyoshi, Director of California's Department of Boating and Waterways. "If we can get help and cooperation from boaters, we can stop the threat and still offer recreational opportunities for boaters."

The East Bay Municipal Utilities District adopted a rule that boaters from outside of California, Southern California, San Benito and Santa Clara counties and those boaters who recently had their boats in any newly identified high-risk reservoirs, will be turned away from launching their vessels at Camanche and Pardee Reservoirs (Amador County). NDOW received a report of a boater being turned away from Camanche because of Nevada registration, but this situation is not widespread.