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AMERICAN RED CROSS – As Labor Day weekend approaches, the American Red Cross encourages everyone to make safety a priority while enjoying the unofficial end of summer. Whether you’re gathering for a backyard barbecue, spending time on the water, or heading outdoors for an adventure, a few simple precautions can help ensure a fun and memorable holiday weekend.
Stay Safe at the Grill
Cookouts are a Labor Day tradition, but proper food handling and grilling practices are essential to prevent illness and injuries.
The Red Cross recommends:
- Washing hands, utensils and food preparation surfaces before cooking.
- Keeping uncooked meats, poultry and seafood separate from ready-to-eat foods such as fruits, vegetables, salads and desserts.
- Storing perishable foods in coolers with plenty of ice or freezer packs and avoiding prolonged exposure to the sun.
- Bringing hand sanitizer when hand-washing facilities are unavailable.
- Keeping children and pets away from the grill and placing grills in open areas away from homes, decks, trees and other flammable materials. Use long-handled grilling tools to help prevent burns.
Practice Water Safety
Drowning can happen quickly, often in as little as 20 to 60 seconds. Constant supervision is critical whenever people are in or around water.
Safety tips include:
- Designating a dedicated “water watcher” whose sole responsibility is to supervise swimmers.
- Monitoring weather conditions and leaving the water immediately at the first sign of lightning or thunder. Stay indoors and away from water for at least 30 minutes after the last thunderclap or lightning flash.
- Wearing a life jacket while boating and in situations that exceed your swimming ability.
- Remembering: “Reach or throw, don’t go.” If someone is struggling in the water, reach or throw a flotation device instead of entering the water yourself.
- Swimming only at lifeguard-protected beaches and within designated swimming areas. Follow all instructions from lifeguards and be aware of local conditions.
Be Prepared Before You Hit the Trail
For those planning to explore the outdoors, preparation can help prevent emergencies and ensure a safe trip.
Before heading out:
- Know the skill level of your group and choose a trail that matches your abilities.
- Carry a first aid kit to treat common outdoor injuries such as cuts, bruises, sprains and insect stings.
- Learn lifesaving skills by taking a Red Cross First Aid and CPR course and downloading the Red Cross First Aid app.
- Share your planned route and location with a family member, friend or neighbor.
- Bring plenty of water, nutritious snacks, weather-appropriate clothing and supplies for any pets accompanying you.
Learn More
Whatever your Labor Day plans may include, the American Red Cross offers additional guidance to help you enjoy summer activities safely. Visit the Red Cross Summer Safety resource page for more information: RedCross Summer Safety.
