Safety Tips To Prevent Pool Accidents And Liability

Big Bear Lake, CA, May 14, 2012, noon - No one wants to see anyone injured in their swimming pool, and with warmer weather, now is the time for pool owners to take active steps to reduce the possibility of drowning or injuries to children in their pools. If you own a pool, you know how popular they are with kids. Legally speaking, swimming pools are considered an “attractive nuisance,” which means that the law recognizes that kids love pools and often use them uninvited. If you own a pool, you could be held liable for negligence if a guest is injured in your pool, or for injuries to children you didn’t even know were there. To prevent tragedy and liability claims, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission offers these pool safety tips.

1. Install a fence between the water and the living area of your home.

It’s not enough to put a fence around your back yard — you need to keep unsupervised kids from entering the pool from inside your home. Climb-resistant fences are available that are and have self-closing, self-latching gates with the latch out of a child’s reach.

2. Keep kids and pets from falling into the swimming pool:

• When it’s not in use, keep your pool covered with a pool safety net or a permanent pool cover. Choose your pool cover carefully — kids are often tempted to walk on them and can be trapped beneath if the cover should collapse.
• Install an audible splash alarm as a backup, but not primary, safety feature.
• Don’t leave toys in a swimming pool. Kids often fall into pools when trying to reach for toys.
• Remove the ladder to an above-ground pool during winter.

3. Make sure you have good safety equipment close at hand.

At the very least, you need a rescue-grade floatation device and a fully stocked first aid kit. Post the address of the pool near the pool for reference if someone needs to call 911. If you don’t have an outdoor phone, always bring your cell phone with you to the pool.

4. Bring your pool drains up to date on safety.

Kids can be trapped by drain suction, so be sure to install anti-entrapment drain covers. Even safer are safety vacuum release systems, which shut off the pump if blockage is detected.

5. Remember that swallowing pool water can make you and your kids sick.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, gastrointestinal illness from swallowing pool water has been rising dramatically in recent years. Some types of parasites can live in chlorinated water for days.

6. Keep a sharp eye out, and learn CPR.

77 percent of submersion injuries to children occur in five minutes or less. Unfortunately, drowning also takes mere minutes and can be completely silent. Even if your kids know how to swim or are using floatation devices, don’t just assume they’re safe — a swimming pool is not a good place for unsupervised kids.

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San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department Recognized As National Sheriff’s Department Of The Year

San Bernardino, CA, May 14, 2012, 8:00am - Four decades ago the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department began a working relationship with WeTip. The toll-free hotline allows citizens who have information about a crime to advise the authorities without having to reveal their identity. A recent memo released by Sheriff Rod Hoops says WeTip has recognized the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department as the 2012 National Sheriff’s Department of the Year. WeTip’s President, Daniel Mayfield said, “WeTip and the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department are committed to the safety and security of the people of this county.” The WeTip hot-line has proven to be an effective tool for law enforcement. Without the services provided by WeTip and the outstanding efforts of the Sheriff’s Department, many crimes could go unsolved.

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Residential Burglaries In Big Bear Valley

Big Bear Lake, CA, May 11, 2012, 8:00am - Detectives of the Big Bear Sheriff’s Station arrested a 17-year-old male on Wednesday, May 9 at about 10am. The suspect was found to be in possession of a large quantity of stolen property from several residential burglaries that occurred in Big Bear City and the City of Big Bear Lake recently. Response to an alarm call on Evergreen Drive in Big Bear Lake the previous day, ultimately led to the arrest of the Fawnskin resident. On May 8, deputies responded to an alarm call, which was a burglary in progress. When the responding deputy arrived, the suspect was seen leaving the residence, and fled the scene in a silver Toyota. The following morning, detectives located the vehicle at Big Bear High School where they made contact with the driver. The stolen property was recovered at a vacant house on Peregrin Avenue in Big Bear Lake. The 17 year old was booked into San Bernardino County Juvenile Hall and remains in custody pending court procedures. As a result of the arrest, and recovery of the stolen items, detectives were able to clear 11 residential burglary cases. Approximately $10,000 of stolen property has been returned to the rightful owners.

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Third Alarm Fire At Lucerne Valley Supermarket

Lucerne Valley, CA, May 11, 2012, 8:00am - On Wednesday, May 9, at about 11:30am San Bernardino County Fire received numerous calls stating the Lucerne Valley Market was on fire and explosions could be heard coming from the back of the building. Six fire engines and two truck companies responded from San Bernardino County Fire, along with three engines from assisting agencies. When firefighters arrived on scene five minutes later, a partially enclosed attached work area and large metal rafters filled with content were fully engulfed in flames. Firefighters quickly contained the fire and it was completely extinguished within 90 minutes. The explosions initially reported were caused when the fire reached an electrical transformer. Store employees safely evacuated everyone from inside the store, and occupants of a small strip mall next to the market were also evacuated. The fire is believed to have started in the outside work area. The cause of the fire remains under investigation by San Bernardino County Fire Investigators. Preliminary content and structure damage is estimated at $300,000. The store was closed because of the fire and was able to reopen on Thursday, May 10 at 3:00pm.

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Businesses Statewide To Start Recycling Programs

Sacramento, CA, May 8, 2012, 1:00pm - California businesses are going greener than ever this year as they start recycling programs to help meet a state recycling goal of 75 percent by the year 2020. A state law that goes into effect July 1 requires businesses and public entities that generate 4 cubic yards or more of waste to establish a recycling program. Schools and multifamily apartments with five or more units are included under the law. AB 341, the first state law of its kind in the nation, keeps California at the forefront of environmental protection while boosting the economy. CalRecycle estimates the new requirements will result in cumulative cost savings of $40 million to $60 million per year for businesses, schools, and local jurisdictions from 2012-2020. From mom-and-pop stores to multinational corporations operating in California, businesses have saved from hundreds to hundreds of thousands of dollars each year by diverting a portion of their waste from landfills. Schools often use recycling programs as fund-raisers. Schools and businesses will continue to have the option to sell their recyclable materials. CalRecycle is responsible for implementing the commercial recycling law. Local jurisdictions will inform businesses of the new recycling requirement, track recycling at commercial businesses, and report results to CalRecycle each year.

Find out more about Assembly Bill 341 and Mandatory Commercial Recycling at http://www.calrecycle.ca.gov/climate/Recycling/default.htm.

For answers to common business waste reduction and recycling issues as well as fact sheets and waste-conscious office management suggestions, visit CalRecycle’s Business Waste Reduction webpages
http://www.calrecycle.ca.gov/ReduceWaste/Business/

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This Week Is Wildfire Awareness Week

San Bernardino, CA, May 8, 2012, 8:00am  – Don’t let the recent cool weather fool you, the sun will shine and the heat of summer will be here soon. Due to the amount of rain this past winter, grasses and weeds will flourish and quickly dry out, creating extreme fire danger. This week (May 6-12) is National Wildfire Awareness Week. San Bernardino County Fire reminds residents to do their part in understanding fire danger by exercising extreme caution around dry, flammable vegetation. Wildfire safety isn’t limited to those who live near wild lands, it’s for anyone camping or spending time in these locations as well. Contrary to common perception, a wildfire does not have to burn everything in its path. In fact, clearing property of debris and maintaining landscaping are important, yet simple, first steps for homeowners. Residents can do their part and take action today that will lessen the risk of damage if a wildfire occurs. To learn more on how you can be prepared for a wildfire, go to big-bear-news-dot-com.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ü  Create a defensible area, firebreaks that divert flames around property, by clearing weeds and dry grass at least 100 feet around your home.  Property on sloped areas should be cleared at least 100 feet as well, as wind-fed flames can race up hills and mountainsides quickly.

ü  Store flammable liquids in approved safety cans away from occupied buildings.

ü  Keep propane tanks clear of vegetation.

ü  Keep all combustibles, such as firewood, lawn furniture, picnic tables, etc., away from structures.

ü  Clean rain gutters regularly to avoid leaf and needle accumulation.

ü  Clear vegetation and other flammable materials from beneath decks or other wooden structures.

ü  Remove tree limbs and vegetation that overhang the roof.

ü  Remove all branches lower than 6 feet.

ü  Don’t let debris and lawn cuttings linger. Dispose of these items quickly to reduce fuel for fire.

ü  Dispose of stove or fireplace ash and charcoal briquettes after soaking them in a metal pail of water for 24 hours.

ü  Keep garden hose connected to faucet.

ü  Review your home escape plan with your family & have a fire drill exercise.

ü  Ensure address is clearly visible from the street.

 

To learn more on how you can be prepared for a wildfire, go to big-bear-news-dot-com

 

go to www.sbcfire.org and click on the Ready, Set, Go icon.  You can also contact your local fire department for further information and free property inspections. San Bernardino County Fire Department wishes you a safe summer.

Department Of Fish & Game Reminds Public To Be Rattlesnake Safe

Big Bear Valley, CA, May 7, 2012, noon - As the weather gets warm, humans are not the only species coming out to enjoy the sun. Snakes, too, can be found basking in the sunshine. Although most snakes in the state are harmless, the Department of Fish and Game (DFG) reminds the public to stay clear of the venomous rattlesnake and know what to do if one strikes. All of California is considered snake country. You don’t even have to be outdoors to discover a snake. They can be found in a garden, and sometimes right in your garage, but there is no need to panic. Snakes play an important role in the ecosystem, including keeping the rodent population under control. Rattlesnakes are generally not aggressive and usually strike only when threatened or deliberately provoked. Given room, they will retreat. Most snake bites occur when a rattlesnake is handled or accidentally touched by someone walking or climbing. On rare occasions, rattlesnakes can cause serious injury to humans. The California Poison Pontrol Center says rattlesnakes account for more than 800 bites each year in the U.S., with one or two deaths. The potential of running into a rattlesnake should not deter anyone from venturing outdoors, but there are precautions that can be taken to reduce the chance of being bitten.

The information provided below will help you identify a rattlesnake, there’s also a list of dos and don’ts, ways to keep snakes out of your yard, and instructions on what to do in the event of a snake bite.

Is it a rattlesnake?
Anyone who ventures outdoors this time of year should know how to identify California’s only native venomous snake – the rattlesnake. There are several species including the northern Pacific rattlesnake (in northern California), and the western diamondback, sidewinder, speckled rattlesnake, red diamond rattlesnake, southern Pacific rattlesnake, Great Basin rattlesnake and the Mojave rattlesnake (all found in Southern California). A rattlesnake is a heavy-bodied, blunt-tailed snake with one or more rattles on the tail. It has a triangular-shaped
head, much broader at the back than at the front, and a distinct “neck” region. The rattlesnake also has openings between the nostrils and eyes, which is a heat-sensing pit. The eyes are hooded with elliptical pupils. Rattlesnakes have a series of dark and light bands near the tail, just before the rattles, which are different from the markings on the rest of the body. Rattles may not always be present, as they are often lost through breakage and are not always developed on the young.

The dos and don’ts in snake country
Rattlesnakes are not confined to rural areas. They have been found in urban areas, on  riverbanks and lakeside parks and at golf courses. Startled rattlesnakes may not rattle before striking defensively. DFG recommends the following safety precautions be followed to reduce the likelihood of startling a rattlesnake:

Wear hiking boots and loose-fitting long pants. Never go barefoot or wear sandals when walking through wild areas. When hiking, stick to well-used trails.
Avoid tall grass, weeds and heavy underbrush where snakes may hide during the day. Do not step or put your hands where you cannot see, and avoid wandering around in the dark. Step ON logs and rocks, never over them, and be especially careful when climbing rocks or gathering firewood. Check out stumps or logs before sitting down, and shake out sleeping bags before use. Never grab “sticks” or “branches” while swimming in lakes and rivers. Rattlesnakes can swim. Be careful when stepping over doorsteps as well. Snakes like to crawl along the edge of buildings where they are protected on one side. Never hike alone. Always have someone with you who can assist in an emergency. Do not handle a freshly killed snake, as it can still inject venom. Teach children early to respect snakes and to leave them alone.

Keeping snakes out of the yard
The best protection against rattlesnakes in the yard is a “rattlesnake proof” fence. The fence should either be solid or with mesh no larger than one-quarter inch. It should be at least three feet high with the bottom buried a few inches in the ground. Slanting your snake fence outward about a 30-degree angle will help. Keep vegetation away from the fence and remove piles of boards or rocks around the home. Use caution when removing those piles – there may already be a snake there. Encourage and protect natural competitors like gopher snakes, kingsnakes and racers. Kingsnakes actually kill and eat rattlesnakes.

What to do in the event of a snake bite
Though uncommon, rattlesnake bites do occur, so have a plan in place for responding to any situation. Carry a cell phone, hike with a companion who can assist in an emergency, and make sure that family or friends know where you are going and when you will be checking in. Stay calm. Wash the bite area gently with soap and water. Remove watches, rings, etc, which may constrict swelling. Immobilize the affected area. Transport safely to the nearest medical facility. For more first aid information please visit California Poison Control at www.calpoison.com.

What you should NOT do after a rattlesnake bite
DON’T apply a tourniquet. DON’T pack the bite area in ice. DON’T cut the wound with a knife or razor. DON’T use your mouth to suck out the venom. DON’T let the victim drink alcohol. More information about rattlesnakes can be found at the following websites:

Photos and natural history:
www.ucdavis.edu/search/index.html?cx=004393900062766886059:da23-x1vm6k&q=rattlesnakes&cof=FORID:9

UC Davis Integrative Pest Management:
www.californiaherps.com/info/rattlesnakeinfo.html

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Cycling Fans Get Opportunity To Ride Portion Of Amgen Tour In Big Bear

Big Bear Lake, CA, May 7, 2012, 8:00am - On May 18 cycling enthusiasts will get an opportunity to ride a portion of  The Amgen Tour of California Stage 6 Finish in Big Bear Lake. The ride, called The King of the Mountain Experience, is open to all levels of cyclists who want to ride through the official finish line two hours before the actual professionals cross the finish line. The King of the Mountain Experience is a 35-mile trek that starts at Snow Summit, goes down highway 18 to Snow Valley, and then returns up the mountain to Snow Summit, crossing through the official Amgen Tour of California finish line. The course includes a full-support crew. A self-timed section on the course gives participants a read-out of their times which they can compare with the professional race leaders. In addition to riding 35 miles of the Stage 6 course, all King of the Mountain Experience participants get certain privileges others do not.  Race day perks include V.I.P. finish line area seating, free bike valet, a commemorative event T-shirt, raffle drawings, a finisher’s medal, and limited edition number plate. There is also a V.I.P. reception after the race at Black Diamond Tavern that includes appetizers, a no-host bar and cycling celebrities. Other benefits include pre-event bike check, lube & tune, discount food and lodging, and Thursday night party. The King of the Mountain Experience is Friday, May 18 at the Amgen Tour of California Stage 6 Finish Line at Snow Summit. The entry fee is $150 per person, and limited to the first 250 registrants. For more information or to register log onto www.bigbearclimb.com or www.openairbigbear.com

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Walk MS Big Bear Lake

Big Bear Lake, CA, May 4, 2012, 8:00am – This year the Walk MS in Big Bear Lake will take place tomorrow at the North Shore Elementary School. Join hundreds of mountain residents and visitors raise awareness and money to find the cause and cure to multiple sclerosis. Choose a 1mile or 5k walk/run option with rest stops along the way. Then you can enjoy lunch, music, a raffle and a fun kid zone. Prizes will be awarded to the “best dressed” and “most spirited” teams and the “most inspirational” walk participant. More than 550 walkers are expected to come out tomorrow and help meet the challenge to raise $54,000. Money raised will support direct services for the more than 21,000 people with MS and their families in Southern California and research to find a cure for this chronic disease of the central nervous system. This is the 7^th annual Walk MS in Big Bear which has raised over $750,000 over the years. Sponsors, donations, volunteers and walkers are needed.  Join the movement tomorrow at Walk MS. Click on the link to register for the Walk MS in Big Bear.

www.walktoendms.org

 

 

Public Comments Sought For Proposed Land Management Plan Amendment

San Bernardino, CA, May 1, 2012, 8:00am  - Forest Service officials are seeking public comments on a Proposed Amendment to the Land Management Plans for the four Southern California national Forests, incuding the San Bernardino Forest. The Proposed Amendment would modify the existing land use allocations in selected roadless areas to include more back country non-motorized and recommended wilderness areas. An alternate monitoring framework is also proposed. This Proposed Amendment to the Land Management Plan is part of the Settlement Agreement approved January 3, 2011, in two cases brought against the United States Department of Agriculture. The San Bernardino National Forest will host an open house to present specific information about what the Proposed Amendment means locally.  Forest Service staff officers will be available to answer questions, and maps of the proposed changes will be available for viewing. The meeting for the San Bernardino National Forest is scheduled for May 31, 2012, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM, at San Bernardino National Forest Headquarters, 602 S. Tippecanoe Ave., San Bernardino, CA 92408. The public is encouraged to get involved in the process. The comment period closes on Monday June 11, 2012.

For further information, or to send comments, contact Project Manager Bob Hawkins via e-mail:
socal_nf_lmp_amendment@fs.fed.us

Send written comments to:

Cleveland National Forest
10845 Rancho Bernardo Road
Suite 200
San Diego, CA 92127-2107

ATTN: LMP Amendment

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