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 Extreme Heat Arrives in the High Desert: How to Stay Safe at Home and on the Road
A dangerous heat wave has settled over Southern California, bringing extreme temperatures and an increased risk of heat-related illness, wildfires and vehicle breakdowns.
The National Weather Service has issued an Extreme Heat Warning for much of inland Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside and San Bernardino counties from 10 a.m. today through 8 p.m. Thursday, with parts of the Mojave Desert expected to see highs in the triple digits through Friday.
Whether you're staying close to home or traveling across the desert, now is the time to take extra precautions.
Protect Yourself from the Heat
Extreme heat can quickly become dangerous, especially for older adults, young children, pets, people with chronic medical conditions, and anyone spending time outdoors.
To stay safe:
- Limit strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day.
- Stay in air-conditioned buildings whenever possible.
- Drink plenty of water, even if you don't feel thirsty.
- Check on elderly neighbors, friends and family members.
- Never leave children or pets in a parked vehicle, even for a few minutes.
- If you work outdoors, take frequent breaks in the shade and stay hydrated.
- Be cautious with anything that could spark a wildfire, especially in dry vegetation.
- Walking your pet in warm weather? Hot pavement can burn paws fast. Choose early morning or evening walks, stick to shade or grass, or use booties on hotter days.
- Make sure pets have access to fresh water and shaded areas.
Need a Place to Cool Off?
If you don't have air conditioning, San Bernardino County offers several places where you can escape the heat. Many San Bernardino County Library branches welcome the public as a "Cool Place to Go," including locations in Adelanto, Apple Valley, Barstow, Hesperia, Phelan, Trona and Wrightwood. The Victorville City Library also has air conditioning available.
Additionally, the San Bernardino County Department of Aging and Adult Services (DAAS) offers free fans for eligible seniors and dependent adults in need of heat relief. For more information, call Senior Information and Assistance at 1-800-510-2020 or Adult Protective Services at 1-877-565-2020.
If You're Driving Through the Desert, Plan Ahead
The week's extreme temperatures can be especially hazardous for motorists traveling through the Mojave Desert.
Long uphill stretches in the Cajon Pass and Mountain Pass on Interstate 15 place extra strain on vehicle cooling systems, making overheating more common during the afternoon. One of the most challenging routes this week will be Interstate 15 between Barstow and Las Vegas, where long, exposed stretches of highway leave drivers with little shade or relief from the heat.
If you're planning a trip through the Mojave Desert:
- Travel during the early morning when pavement temperatures are cooler.
- Check tire pressure before driving, while the tires are still cold, and inflate them to the pressure listed on your vehicle's door jamb.
- Inspect your tires for worn tread, cracks or bulges. Replace any damaged tire before your trip.
- Carry plenty of drinking water for everyone in the vehicle.
- Bring a working spare tire or tire repair kit.
- If you experience a tire blowout, keep a firm grip on the steering wheel, ease off the accelerator and allow the vehicle to slow before carefully moving to the shoulder.
- Drivers heading toward Nevada and Arizona should also be aware that monsoon storms are beginning to develop, meaning conditions can change rapidly from extreme heat to heavy rain and localized flooding in a short amount of time.
Stay Weather Aware
This week's heat can be life-threatening if precautions aren't taken. By planning ahead, staying hydrated, checking on vulnerable family members and preparing your vehicle before hitting the road, you can help keep yourself and others safe during this period of dangerous heat.
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 Victorville Police to Conduct Hands-Free Driving and DUI Enforcement This Week
The Victorville Police Department will conduct a DUI enforcement operation from 4 p.m. to 2 a.m. Saturday, July 18, targeting drivers suspected of operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Officials remind motorists that impairment can result from alcohol, marijuana, prescription medications, and certain over-the-counter drugs. Drivers are encouraged to plan ahead by using a sober driver or alternate transportation. A first-time DUI conviction can result in an average of $13,500 in fines and penalties, in addition to a suspended driver's license.
Victorville Police will also conduct a traffic enforcement operation on Tuesday, July 21, focusing on drivers who violate California's hands-free cell phone law. Under state law, motorists may not hold a phone or other electronic communications device while driving, including while talking, texting, or using apps. Officials remind drivers that repeated violations can result in fines and points on a driver's record. Motorists are encouraged to pull over safely before using their phones and to silence or store devices out of reach before driving.
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 Veterans Service Officers Offering Assistance in Barstow on Thursday, July 16
Did you know that Veterans Service Officers (VSOs) are available in Barstow on the third Thursday of each month to provide free claims assistance and benefits counseling?
Veterans can receive one-on-one assistance at the DAAS-PG office, located at 536 E. Virginia Way in Barstow, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. No appointment is required, and services are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
The next Barstow visit is scheduled for Thursday, July 16. For veterans who are unable to attend, County Veterans Affairs also offers same-day phone assistance Monday through Friday by calling 909-382-3290.
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 Victor Valley Community Services Council Hosting Bingo Lunch on Thursday
The Victor Valley Community Services Council invites the community to a free afternoon of fun on Thursday, July 16. Doors open at 11:30 a.m., with activities beginning at 12 p.m. Guests can enjoy a delicious meal, celebrate July birthdays, and play Bingo for prizes. Everyone is welcome. Reservations are required by calling (760) 243-9646 Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
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 Red Cross Urgently Needs Blood Donors
The American Red Cross is encouraging eligible donors to give blood following a nearly 25 percent decline in the national blood supply during June. Donors with O-positive and B-negative blood types, along with platelet donors, are especially needed to help ensure lifesaving medical care is not delayed. Appointments can be scheduled at the link below.
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 High Desert Job Fair Planned on July 23 at Destiny Christian Center in Victorville
High Desert America’s Job Center is inviting residents to connect with top employers, explore open job opportunities, and learn about a variety of public services during the upcoming High Desert Job Fair on July 23. The event will be held from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at Destiny Christian Center, located at 14380 Amargosa Road in Victorville.
Representatives from the Office of the Assessor Recorder and Public Defender will also be onsite to assist with services including certificate copies, notary filings, fictitious business names, assessor property information, and record-clearing support. Attendees are encouraged to register at the link below. Be sure to bring resumes to apply for jobs onsite.
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 Backpack Giveaway Planned on July 30 at San Bernardino County Fairgrounds
The Great Backpack Giveaway is planned from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Thursday, July 30, at the San Bernardino County Fairgrounds in Victorville. Registered children in pre-kindergarten through 12th grade are eligible to receive a free backpack while supplies last. Families can also take advantage of fresh food boxes, clothing and shoes, free haircuts, reading books, opportunity drawings, and other community resources. Advance registration is required at the link below.
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 Mojave Narrows Regional Park's Next Catfish Stocking Planned on Thursday
Mojave Narrows Regional Park's next catfish stocking is scheduled for Thursday, July 16, when 605 pounds of catfish will be added to the lake. The lake will be closed on stocking day. A California fishing license is required for anglers ages 16 and older. Additional information about fishing permits, fees, and the stocking schedule is available at the link below.
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 Free Pet Vaccinations and Microchipping Planned in Phelan Community Park
San Bernardino County Animal Care's Mobile Services team will visit Phelan Community Park on 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Thursday, July 23, offering free pet vaccinations and microchipping to qualifying residents of unincorporated San Bernardino County.
Cat owners should arrive between 11 a.m. and 12 p.m. Dog licensing and pet ownership resources will also be available. Residents should bring a valid photo ID or proof of residency.
Dogs must be leashed, and cats must be transported in individual carriers. Eligibility information is available at animalcare.sbcounty.gov, and preregistration forms can be found at the link below.
 'Read, Write and Cruise' Car Show Planned on August 8 at Hesperia Branch Library
Car enthusiasts and community members across the High Desert are invited to rev up their engines for the Read, Write, and Cruise Car Show, rolling into the Hesperia Branch Library on Saturday, Aug. 8.
Hosted by the San Bernardino County Library in celebration of the 100th anniversary of historic Route 66, the event will take place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., bringing together chrome, culture, and community for a high-energy, family-friendly experience.
The free event will feature up to 100 vehicles, ranging from polished classics to rugged off-roaders, along with live entertainment, community vendors, music, food, prizes, and interactive activities for all ages.
Attendees are also encouraged to explore library resources and discover programs that keep the community engaged year-round. Read, Write, and Cruise highlights the County Library’s innovative programming—where horsepower meets brainpower in celebration of Route 66’s legendary legacy.
For more information about registering a vehicle, contact SBCL Events Coordinator Jenni McCormick at Jenni.McCormick@lib.sbcounty.gov or 909-798-2273.
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 Adelanto Hosting Community Yard Sale
The City of Adelanto invites residents to take part in its Community-Wide Yard Sale from dusk to dawn, Friday, July 17, through Sunday, July 19. No permit is required, making it easy for residents to turn their front yards into weekend storefronts or spend the weekend searching for bargains throughout the city.
Shoppers can browse everything from vintage treasures and household goods to clothing, toys, furniture, and other unique finds. The annual community event offers a fun opportunity for neighbors to connect while giving pre-loved items a new home.
 Movie Night at Phelan Community Park
The Phelan Piñon Hills Community Services District invites families to another Movie Night at Phelan Community Park this week. The featured film is "Dungeons & Dragons" (PG-13), with the movie beginning at dusk. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets. Snacks will be available for purchase from Kiwanis and the Serrano Key Club.
 Public Observatory Night Planned Friday at Luz Observatory in Apple Valley
The High Desert Astronomical Society will host its weekly Public Observatory Night on Friday, July 17, at Luz Observatory. The evening begins with a presentation by HiDAS member Karen Kile on the July constellations and how they can be used to navigate the night sky, followed by telescope viewing of celestial objects. Events are weather permitting, and updates will be posted on the HiDAS Facebook page. The event will take place at 15380 Cholame Road, Apple Valley.
 Apple Valley's Sunset Concert Series Continues on Thursday with 805 Social Club
The Town of Apple Valley invites residents to enjoy its weekly Sunset Concert Series from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. every Thursday at Civic Center Park, 14999 Dale Evans Parkway.
This week's featured entertainment is The 805 Social Club, performing an energetic tribute to the history of pop music with hits spanning the decades.
Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and enjoy food vendors, dancing, family-friendly fun, and refreshments from the Rotary beer garden.
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