Memorial Day has long been considered the unofficial start to summer season in addition to honoring our country’s veterans. It is also a time where you and your family might begin to spend more time outdoors as the days grow longer and warmer. Here are some Memorial Day safety tips to remember while celebrating this holiday.
Keeping Safe Around Water
It’s easy to forget to keep an eye on kids swimming or playing near pools, lakes, or at the beach during a Memorial Day party. All kids need to be supervised since you cannot always rely on a lifeguard being present. Take turns with others watching kids in or near any type of water. It’s also a good idea to not be drinking alcohol while supervising children in the water or if you are planning to swim.
Another danger that you might not think about are coolers. We all know that toddlers have a knack for getting into places they shouldn’t. Keep drink coolers out of reach of curious toddlers that might choose to investigate and become inadvertently trapped.
Grill Safety
Memorial Day and barbeques go hand-in-hand. Before using your grill, make sure that it is completely cleaned. Dirty propane grills are especially dangerous and can cause flare-ups from accumulated grease. Be sure to always:
- Keep flammable items away from both charcoal and propane grills.
- Keep children away from grills and open flames.
- Don’t wear loose clothing while grilling.
- Remember to turn off the gas on your grill when done.
- Make sure coals are completely out before disposing.
Always Drink Responsibly
There’s nothing wrong with enjoying a drink or two during a Memorial Day celebration. However, make sure that you drink responsibly. Don’t drink and drive! If you plan to indulge beyond a couple of drinks, make sure you have a designated driver or arrange for transportation home beforehand. And always drink plenty of water because alcohol can dehydrate you, which doesn’t mix well with spending long hours in the blazing sun.
Exercise Caution with Fireworks
Many Memorial Day celebrations include fireworks. Make sure to follow local laws pertaining to the use of fireworks. If you do use fireworks, keep them away from children and:
- Allow only adults to light fireworks.
- Light them in an area without grass or branches that can catch fire.
- Keep a bucket of water or hose ready to extinguish sparks quickly.
- Don’t hold lit fireworks in your hand.
- Maintain a safe distance away from lit fireworks.
SafeTouch Security wants to remind you to be safe this Memorial Day and throughout the entire year. Remember, by exercising Memorial Day safety, you and your family can avoid accidents that can ruin your holiday fun.