Labor Day Safety Tips

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.