A Western Oklahoma Guide to a Smart Summer
As the final school bells ring across Western Oklahoma, families are swapping backpacks for bait buckets and school zones for sunscreen. But before you cannonball into Foss Lake or hit the backroads like you’re in a country music video, take a moment to pack some common sense. A few smart choices now might save you a sunburn, a flat tire, or an awkward call to 911 that starts with, “Well, what had happened was…”
DIVE SMART, SHINE SMARTER: SUN AND WATER SURVIVAL TIPS Whether you’re headed to the lake or just running through the sprinkler, make sure your summer splash doesn’t turn into a safety flop. Kids under 13 need life jackets—not just floaties shaped like cartoon unicorns. And yes, someone needs to actually *watch* the kids, not just glance up from their phone every ten minutes. A sober adult on lifeguard duty (even if it’s Uncle Rick, who swears he’s part dolphin) can make all the difference.
For toddlers, look into wearable water alarms that attach to clothes or wrists. They beep like crazy when they get wet—kind of like a toddler, but more consistent. They’re not a substitute for supervision, but they’re a solid backup plan.
Now, just because you’re *in* the water doesn’t mean you’re safe *from* the sun. Oklahoma heat will slap you like you owe it money. Wear light clothing, grab a hat, and slap on sunscreen like you’re frosting a cake. Look for waterproof, broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher—and reapply every two hours or after swimming. No, SPF 35 doesn’t mean you only have to reapply every 35 minutes (that’s just sun math nonsense). And don’t forget to hydrate—sweet tea is charming, but water’s what your cells are actually begging for.
Also—and we can’t stress this enough—don’t leave kids or pets in the car. Not even with the window cracked.
*Okay, maybe an in-law. For like, five minutes. Tops.* It’s not funny, it’s fatal. Be smart, stay cool, and if you must tan, do it with SPF, a timer, and a cold drink in hand.
Country Roads and Chaos: Drive Like Your Grandma’s Watching The road to summer fun runs right past tractors, deer crossings, and at least three yard sales. Slow down. Buckle up. Be especially careful during those golden hour drives—heading west into the sunset can blind you faster than a bug hitting the windshield. Keep sunglasses in the car, clean your windshield inside *and* out, and add extra space between you and the next vehicle. You may think you’re following a sedan, but in the sun’s glare, it could be a swather with no brake lights.
Watch out for festival parking lots—they’re chaos wrapped in corn dogs. If you think Boomtown Wing Night is hard to navigate, just wait ‘til you’re sandwiched between a bounce house trailer and a guy selling pickles out of a minivan. Turn signals vanish in these zones. It’s like everyone suddenly agreed: “They didn’t have blinkers at the Renaissance Fair, and by God, we don’t need ’em now either.”
And if you’re headed to a local event, establish a family rendezvous point in case little Jimmy wanders off chasing a funnel cake. Bonus tip: festival parking lots are where common sense goes to die—stay alert.
DON’T BE A SNACK FOR A SNAKE (OR A KITE OR A KILLDEER) This ain’t the zoo, y’all— those rattles are real. But let’s clear up a local legend: the idea that feral hogs have pressured rattlesnakes into silence? Not quite. Experts explain that rattlesnakes haven’t stopped rattling because of hogs or humans. They simply don’t rattle as often as people expect. Snakes tend to stay quiet unless they feel directly threatened, so don’t count on a warning buzz—stay alert and watch where you step.
Stick to marked trails while hiking, and check your boots and bedding like you’re auditioning for a wildlife survival show. Spray your legs like you’re seasoning a brisket— DEET is your best friend. And bring a basic first aid kit that includes a compression bandage, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, and a permanent marker (to draw a circle around any swelling for medics). Also? Tell someone where you’re going. If you vanish into the brush, it’d be nice if someone knew where to send the search party.
Now, about those birds. Killdeer are ground-nesting birds that lay their eggs in gravel driveways, dirt roads, and open fields. Their nests are nearly invisible, and they’ll put on a dramatic “broken wing” act to lure you away. So if you see a bird flopping around like it’s auditioning for a soap opera, take the hint and steer clear.
Then there’s the Mississippi kite—a sleek, gray raptor that nests in urban and rural areas alike. They’re mostly insect- eaters, but during nesting season, they can get a bit territorial. If you find yourself being dive-bombed while mowing the lawn or walking near tall trees, it’s probably a kite protecting its nest. Wave your arms, wear a hat, and move along—they’re just doing their job.
REDNECK YACHT CLUB RULES
Boats and booze don’t mix— unless you’re into impromptu swimming lessons. Same goes for ATVs: helmets are not just suggestions. Know your lake rules before you launch and treat every trail like it’s booby- trapped by nature.
A few friendly reminders from the unofficial rulebook of boat ramp etiquette: Load your gear, coolers, and snacks *before* you’re on the ramp— not while ten trucks are lined up behind you. Turn off your headlights when backing down the ramp in the dark— you’re not guiding planes in for a landing, you’re just blinding everyone else. And please, no fishing from the dock when others are trying to load or unload. If you’re in flip-flops with a rod and they’re wrangling a pontoon in reverse, guess who’s the problem?
While you’re out there, remember: wakes can flip kayaks, swamp fishermen, and tick off every dock owner in earshot. No wake means no wake. Keep a safe distance from swimmers, and if you’re towing a tube or skier, use a spotter and go wide around coves.
Here’s a bonus tip: your boat seats can get fried too. Use a little spray-on sunscreen or UV protectant made for vinyl to keep them from cracking like your Uncle Larry’s jokes. And don’t forget to secure hats, phones, and drinks— Oklahoma lakes love souvenirs, especially if they float just long enough for you to reach... and miss.
HARVEST HUSTLE: SHARE THE ROAD, SHARE THE RESPECT When the wheat turns gold and the combines roll out, it’s more than just harvest season— it’s a community-wide effort that feeds the nation. In Western Oklahoma, this time of year brings unique challenges and opportunities for both farmers and neighbors.
• Roadway Respect Farm equipment moves slowly—often under 25 mph—and takes up more space than your average vehicle. When you see flashing amber lights or the iconic orange triangle, slow down and maintain a safe distance. Remember, if you can’t see the operator’s mirrors, they can’t see you.
Passing should be done with utmost caution. Farmers may need to make wide turns or veer unexpectedly to avoid obstacles. Always ensure you have a clear line of sight and ample space before attempting to pass.
• Neighborly Gestures Harvesting is grueling work, often extending from dawn till dusk. A simple wave, a cold bottle of water, or a snack can go a long way in showing appreciation. Some locals even prepare field meals—a cherished tradition that brings comfort during long hours in the field.
• Safety First For those working the fields, safety is paramount. Regular breaks, staying hydrated, and ensuring machinery is properly maintained can prevent accidents. It’s also crucial to have a first-aid kit readily available and to communicate your whereabouts to someone in case of emergencies.
Let’s all do our part to ensure a safe and successful harvest season. Whether you’re behind the wheel of a combine or just passing by, a little patience and kindness can make a big difference.
TWO WHEELS, NO EXCUSES: SUMMER MOTORCYCLE SAFETY IN WESTERN OKLAHOMA
Motorcycles are thrilling— but also very unforgiving. Out here in Western Oklahoma, we’ve got long stretches of open road, sunsets that’ll stop your heart, and drivers who occasionally forget that mirrors exist. That’s a dangerous combo if you’re on two wheels.
Legally speaking, if you’re over 18 in Oklahoma, you’re not required to wear a helmet. That said, your skull doesn’t magically become crashproof after your birthday. A DOT-approved helmet—especially a full-face one—can turn a life-threatening wreck into a bruised ego and a great story. If you’re under 18, helmets are mandatory. And eye protection? That’s required for everyone unless your bike has a windshield tall enough to catch bugs before they hit your teeth.
This time of year, it gets hot enough to fry an egg on a seat pan. So wear breathable gear—yes, even in the heat. There are lightweight mesh jackets that protect your skin and still let the wind through. Skip the tank tops and shorts unless your long-term goal is to become a cautionary tale in the ER.
Hydration’s a big deal, too. You’re basically riding a hairdryer at 70 mph. Keep a bottle of water in your saddlebag or stop at gas stations like it’s a hydration scavenger hunt. Avoid the mid-afternoon heat if you can. Mornings and evenings are cooler, and the bugs are less aggressive about hitching rides on your visor.
As for safety: keep your lights on even during the day. It helps you get noticed by folks who might be distracted by funnel cakes or farm equipment. Wear something visible— neon, reflective stripes, anything brighter than pavement. And assume every driver is texting, eating, lost, or all three.
Oklahoma law also requires a valid motorcycle endorsement (Class M), two rearview mirrors, a working speedometer, and a horn that can politely— but firmly—say, “Please don’t kill me.”
Look—we know riding a motorcycle makes you feel like the main character. Just make sure you live long enough to enjoy the sequel. Ride smart, wave at other bikers, and don’t forget to check your tires before you become a viral photo next to a tipped-over Kawasaki on Route 66.
LET’S MAKE THIS SUMMER ONE TO REMEMBER FOR CANNONBALLS
So whether you’re cannonballing into a cow pond, dodging a rogue goat on a gravel road, or just trying to survive a festival porta-potty in July, remember—Western Oklahoma doesn’t need more legends, it needs fewer injuries. Pack sunscreen, use your blinkers (seriously), and maybe leave the fireworks to the professionals. This summer, don’t be the headline—be the hometown hero who made it through with all your fingers, your dignity, and your in-laws still speaking to you.
