Millions of Americans around the country will be firing up their grills and spending Memorial Day outside as they celebrate the holiday. However, before you starting grilling up that perfect hamburger, make sure you follow these safety tips to keep you safe, healthy and happy so you can enjoy this holiday.
Grilling
Memorial Day has become one of the top "grilling" holidays and many Americans will spend their time in front of their barbecues grilling hot dogs, hamburgers and more. It is important to remember the dangers of food poisoning while you are preparing food for your Memorial Day party. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Protection, food poisoning sickens up to 48 million Americans every year. To avoid getting sick, use a meat thermometer to be sure all of your meats are cooked to the proper temperatures.
Also, grills can be dangerous especially if it located within the reach of young children. Experts suggest that adults should keep an area of around three feet around the grilling area that is off limits to kids to keep them safe.
Traveling
This long weekend is a popular time for Americans to travel, and the National Safety Council predicts that there could be as many as 382 fatalities and 40,900 injuries on the roadways this weekend. They are urging drivers to take extra precautions when driving.
"We issue these estimates to draw attention to risks on the roadways and encourage drivers to take extra precautions so needless tragedies can be prevented," Deborah Hersman, NSC president and CEO said.
Insects
With all the time many people will be spending outdoors this weekend, they will be even more susceptible to insects than normal. While for most people insects are a nuisance, to others with allergies they can be highly dangerous. Each year, insect stings cause at least 50 deaths and result in more than 500,000 Americans being hospitalized. If you are going outdoors and are allergic to stings and bites, always use bug spray and carry an EpiPen at all times.
You must also be mindful of ticks, as they can carry dangerous diseases such as Lyme disease or Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever.
"If you're going to enjoy the outdoors, even just a backyard barbecue, you run some risk of acquiring a tick," said Harvard Entomologist Richard Pollack. "At the end of the day, do a tick check on yourself, children and even your pets."
Pools
Another favorite Memorial Day pastime is lounging and swimming in a pool. Remember, never swim alone and always monitor children who are playing around a pool. Consider designating an official pool watcher when kids are around to be sure everyone remains safe.
Alcohol
One of the most common acts of celebrating Memorial Day, having a beer or other alcoholic beverage has become almost as common as grilling. This, of course, raises the risk and instances of drinking and driving. If you drink, be sure you choose ahead of time who will be the designated driver and never get behind the wheel if you have been drinking.
Memorial Day can be one of the best holidays of the year as you get outside after a long winter and celebrate the holiday while enjoying the warm weather. However, it is important to be safe. Following these tips will keep both you and your family safe and healthy for this holiday weekend so you can all enjoy many more to come. Happy Memorial Day!
