You know it’s early July when you look at the Environment Canada website and you see nothing but graphics showcasing bright sunshine and blazing hot temperatures.

This is the time of the year when most Osoyoos residents – and tens of thousands of visitors over the next eight to 12 weeks – want to part of Canada’s Warmest Welcome.

During most of July and August, the temperatures in and around Osoyoos are traditionally amongst the highest in the entire country, which makes us the envy of most Canadians and provides a big reason why this community is amongst the most popular tourist destinations in the province.

With temperatures expected to climb between 35 and 40 over the next several days, there’s certainly not a lack of things to do in the beautiful sunshine and heat.

However, when it gets this hot outside for an extended period of time, there are certain precautions that citizens should take.

If you’re frail or weak due to illness or age, it’s never a bad idea to stay indoors inside an air conditioned room until the sun goes down at night.

For those who love the sunshine and working on a suntan, please remember there are dangerous levels of ultraviolet (UV) rays that can cause a lot of damage to your skin.

Everyone who spends an extended period of time in the sun, especially at this time of year, should cover their skin with suntan lotion that provides adequate protection.

Seeking shade and wearing proper clothing is also recommended.

There will be thousands of people heading to the various beaches in and around Osoyoos over the next several weeks.

We urge everyone to please be careful and don’t swim alone. For those people who aren’t strong swimmers, wear a lifejacket or proper approved floatation device.

For the many people who own boats, Osoyoos Lake is extremely busy this time of year, so it’s crucial that all drivers exercise extreme caution, drive at a proper speed and be aware of your surroundings at all times.

We are very fortunate to enjoy beautiful, long and hot summers here in the gorgeous South Okanagan.

We hope everyone has an amazing, fun and safe summer season.