24 May Tips for a Safe Memorial Weekend

The unofficial “kickoff” to summer is almost here. For most, it’s a long weekend and a time to relax, spend time with your friends and family, and have some fun.

Tip 1: Water Safety — Wear a lifejacket whenever you are on a boat. Make sure young children are supervised at all times when near the water such as a lake, on a boat, or by a pool or hot tub.

Tip 2: Sun Safety — Protect against sunburn and heat stroke. Wear sunscreen with and apply it generously throughout the day. Protect your eyes with a good pair of sunglasses and wear a hat when outdoors. Drink plenty of water, especially when in the sun or if you are sweating heavily. If you feel faint or nauseous, get into a cool place immediately.


Tip 3: Grill Safety —Make sure you thoroughly clean your grill of any grease or dust. Replace any connectors which can lead to a gas leak and keep lighted cigarettes, matches or open flames away from the grill. Do not use a grill in a garage, breezeway, carport or porch or near any surface that can catch fire. 

Tip 4: Take a break from the food  — It’s hopefully going to be nice outside, so try not to sit at the table eating mindlessly the whole afternoon! Throw around a frisbee, push the kids on the swings, walk the dog around the block or jump in the pool or lake and swim some laps. Balancing your calories in with calories out is a key part of maintaining a healthy weight.

 Tip 5: Alcohol Safety — Memorial weekend is a great time for grilling and enjoying family. For some, that means alcohol will also be involved. Avoid binge drinking, which might put you at risk of alcohol poisoning. Make sure to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and eat foods with high water content.

Tip 6: Food Safety —  When you serve food, make sure it doesn’t not sit out for more than two hours and only half that long if temperatures are hot. If left out any longer, the food can cause illness for those who eat it.