Use care when outside on hot days

OK, it's hot outside. The forecast is calling for the next 10 days is calling for five days topping out at 90 degrees or above and five days at 85 degrees or above. The lows are scheduled to be in the high 50s or low 60s.

Sometimes it is better to simply stay inside an air-conditioned house. While this is certainly true, it is difficult to keep outdoor-minded people inside. So be smart and take precautions during hot weather.

The first item is to remain hydrated. It is easy to take plastic water bottles in a cooler with ice. We might take three bottles of water for each of us just on a trip to Spokane.

If a group was going to investigate the Lake Lenore Caves, they would be wise to take two or three bottles of water each just for the hike. Plus this group would be smart to take the hike early in the morning, say at sunrise, when the temperature is cooler.

Sip on the water often, even if not thirsty, not just once or twice during the hike. Parents need to make sure the youth are drinking enough water, again taking sips throughout the hike. Avoiding drinks high in sugar and alcoholic is also recommended.

Rest often in shady areas, which will be in the caves on the Lake Lenore Caves hike. Many Basin hikes do not have caves or trees to provide shade. It might be best to avoid such open-area hikes until the weather cools. Use sunscreen to protect your skin and sunglasses to protect your eyes.

Remember to be aware of rattlesnakes if your outdoor activity is hiking anywhere in the Columbia Basin. This is true if heading out on sagebrush covered land, picnicking at Park Lake or golfing at the Sun Lakes Golf Course. We have known golfers who needed to move a rattler from the green in order to complete a putt.

Salmon derby

Catching king salmon 600 miles from the mouth of the Columbia River still amazes us. We have participated in this fishery and enjoy catching the fish and eating them too. Brewster started a salmon derby in celebration of the large amount of fish returning to their area each year. Read on.

The Ninth Annual Brewster King Salmon Derby will take place on Aug. 1, 2 and 3. The adult winner will receive $1,500, youth prize for 9 to 14 year olds is $600 and youth 8 and under will receive $100.