Memorial Day Safety Tips

By Carly Flumer, Volunteer

Fire up the grills and take a splash into the deep end! Memorial Day is coming! The Red Cross wants to make sure you have a safe holiday by following these simple tips:

ROAD TRIP!

• If you plan on taking a road trip to see family or even down to the beach, make sure you pack the essentials, including extra cash, emergency phone numbers, and a first aid kit. If your neighbor plans on staying home for the holiday, let them know that you’ll be out of town so that they may act a friendly “neighbor watch.”
• Make sure your car is in good-working order if you plan to travel far and that it has enough gas before you hit the road.
• Remember to buckle up and pay attention to the roads at all times, especially if you’re driving with loved ones. If you plan on drinking, have a designated driver.

MAKE A SPLASH!

• Memorial Day marks the opening day of the pool season! Make sure you pack extra sunscreen and a hat, especially if you plan on going out around when the suns rays are at its peak – between 10am – 3pm
• Remember to not run around the pool area, especially when there are smaller kids and it’s more likely when someone can get hurt
• Ask a lifeguard for help if you feel that you are in danger. Supervise your children at all times.
• If you or your child need swimming lessons, the Red Cross offers classes throughout the region. Find your local class here: www.redcross.org/take-a-class

BBQ PARTY!

• Make sure every part of the grill is in proper working order and is not damaged, including the hose and the propane tank.
• Keep a fire extinguisher nearby.
• Supervise the grill at all times to avoid overcooking food, and more importantly, to make sure no one gets hurt, especially if children and pets are around.
• Never grill indoors. Grill outside, and make sure it has plenty of open space around it and cannot come into contact with anything flammable, such as surrounding trees.
• Use long-handled tools and oven mitts.
• Keep the grill covered when not in use.

For more information on how to keep safe this holiday, click here or, visit www.redcross.org.

Have a great Memorial Day weekend!