Tips for Keeping Everyone Happy and Healthy as You Celebrate the Start of Summer
Memorial Day is almost here! School will be out soon and everyone is itching to be outside, whether you’re headed to the beach, visiting family or just firing up the grill. There are endless ways to enjoy the holiday, but you don’t want to end up in the emergency room. Here are some simple things you can do to make certain you and your loved ones have a safe Memorial Day weekend.
Take the Time to Get Your Vehicle Road-Ready
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Memorial Day is consistently the most dangerous day of the year to be on the American roadways. While you can’t control the actions of other drivers, there are a number of things you can do to maximize your safety:
- Make certain all necessary maintenance has been completed on your vehicle—Check your air tire pressure, confirm that all your lights and signals work and that other routine maintenance has been done
- Know where you are going—A significant number of motor vehicle accidents are caused when drivers are unfamiliar with the roads or don’t know where they’re going. Map out your route in advance.
- Never get behind the wheel when you’ve had even one beer—Even a slight amount of alcohol can impair your reflexes
- Always wear a seat belt
Take Necessary Precautions to Keep Your Food Safe
Outdoor temperatures can easily run into the food “danger” zone, which can lead to various levels of food poisoning. Keep all cold foods on ice or refrigerated until you prepare and eat them. Cooked foods should be kept at a minimum of 140° until served. If the food is available buffet-style, keep the lids on all dishes whenever possible. Finally, wash your hands often.
Safe Cooking Outdoors
There’s nothing like the taste of food cooked outdoors, but you need to exercise caution to prevent fires and burn injuries. Before you fire up your grill for the first time, give it a thorough cleaning, making certain you remove any collected grease. Don’t put the charcoal grill on the deck—the backyard is a safer place. Stay away from trees and heavily trafficked areas, too. Never walk away from a hot grill…if you have to leave for any reason, find someone to stay with the grill, so that small children don’t wander over and put their hands on it.
General Health Precautions
It’s likely this will be your first extended period outdoors since last fall. Your skin will likely be pale and susceptible to sunburn. Make certain you apply plenty of sunscreen and that you use one with an SPF of at least 50. You’ll have plenty of time over the next few months to work on your tan.
While you’re at it, make sure you stay hydrated…plain old water is best.
