Summer Safety Tips for Labor Day

 As summer winds down, everyone is looking forward to the last barbeque and some of the last outdoor parties we’ll have for this season. In order to have the safest celebration possible, check out these Labor Day safety tips.

• Practice barbeque safety: Make sure your grill is 10 feet or more away from your house or garage. Check the fuel line for leaks, if it’s a gas grill, and only light it with the lid open.
• Keep children and pets away from the grill by establishing a “safety zone” around the grill, within which children are not allowed.
• If you use a charcoal grill, use only lighter fluid (not gasoline!) and don’t over apply it. Keep a fire extinguisher nearby and never try to put out a grease fire with water.
• Grille hamburgers until the juices run clear and always make sure chicken is done through. This will ensure any bacteria is killed.
• Don’t let food sit around outside. Refrigerate or chill cooked foods that are not served promptly, and keep food (especially items containing mayonnaise, such as potato salad and tuna salad) out of direct sunlight. A stomach ailment from undercooked meat will ruin the rest of your weekend.
• Swimming accidents can happen in seconds, so if children are swimming, make sure they’re supervised by a responsible adult.
• If you choose to enjoy alcoholic beverages, drink responsibly and have a designated driver. Police will have patrols and checkpoints, and – regardless of whether you run into one – it’s the right thing to do.
• If you’re going to be away from your house for an extended period, be sure to leave enough food and water for your pets. Consider having a trusted friend stop by to check on your pets.

Labor Day safety doesn’t have to be a wet blanket on your weekend celebration. Instead, practicing these Labor Day safety tips will help ensure you have a fun-filled summer hurrah.

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