Tag: Labor Day Safety Tips

September 2, 2016
This Labor Day weekend, while you’re buying hotdogs, packing your car, or heading to the water, add some safety tips to your Labor Day to-do list. We’ve gathered tips from the American Red Cross and SafeWise to help you have a safe and enjoyable holiday weekend!

 

Hydration and Sun Protection

  • Stay hydrated with water instead of sugary drinks like soda and juice.
  • If you plan on drinking alcohol, drink in moderation and drink one glass of water in between alcoholic drinks.
  • Do not drink and drive. If you plan on drinking alcohol at a neighborhood party, have someone be the designated driver so you can return home safely.
  • Apply sunscreen before you head outside and reapply throughout the day.

 

Water Safety

  • Check weather and water conditions beforehand and throughout the day.
  • Always swim with a buddy in a designated swimming area supervised by a lifeguard.
  • Provide constant supervision to children in or near the water and always stay within arm’s reach of young children and inexperienced swimmers while they are in the water.
  • Young children and inexperienced swimmers should wear U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets.
  • Make sure you boat is in good mechanical condition and carries all safety equipment (personal flotation devices, emergency kit, and a first aid kit).
  • Keep away from restricted areas (both for swimming and boating).
  • Before heading out on the boat, tell someone on land where you are heading and what time you expect to return.

 

Grilling Tips

  • Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
  • Keep children and pets away from the grill.
  • Never add charcoal starter fluid after coals have been ignited.
  • Use long-handled utensils.
  • Wash your hands before and after you touch raw meat.
  • Don’t leave the grill unattended while in use.
  • Keep the grill away from the house, tree branches, or anything that could catch fire.
  • Never leave food that requires refrigeration (such as potato salad, coleslaw or chicken salad) out in the sun.

 

Traveling

  • Carry an emergency supply kit in your trunk.
  • Let someone know your destination, your route, and when you expect to arrive.
  • Buckle up and obey traffic signs.
  • Avoid texting and talking on the phone while driving.