Memorial Day Safety

Memorial Day Safety — Memorial Day Weekend is often the first big party of the summer, with people across the nation enjoying picnics, barbeques, time at the shore, and on, with friends and family. As we remember those who lost their lives while serving in the United States military, we can practice being safe this weekend and everyday. As always, we want to remind you to enjoy the long weekend safely and healthily. Read on for Memorial Day safety tips.

Memorial Day Safety Tips

Pool/water safety

Appoint an adult as a lifeguard, rather than assuming that “someone” is keeping an eye on swimmers – especially young swimmers. Stay within arms reach of your younger kids who are in a pool or other body of water. Never drink alcohol while swimming or supervising swimmers.

Drink cooler dangers

Curious toddlers can find their way into an empty cooler and get trapped inside. If there is melted ice, this could lead to drowning; if not, suffocation is possible. Keep something on top of coolers to make it harder for children to get into them.

Skin protection

Plan ahead! If there won’t be a shelter where you plan to celebrate, bring your own shade, like an umbrella. Choose covered picnic areas when possible. Always wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses for more coverage. The most important first step, though, is sunscreen – apply liberally and often, and repeat after at least two hours of sun exposure.

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What is Memorial Day, anyway? Originally called Decoration Day, it began just after the Civil War (April 12, 1861 – April 9, 1865) and became an official federal holiday in 1971. Memorial Day is a day for the remembrance of those who have died in service to the United States of America and is always observed on the last Monday of May.

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More Memorial Day Safety Tips

Fire and grill safety

Always start with a clean grill to avoid fire injury and avoid loose clothing and sleeves when working the grill. Once finished, make sure that the coals cool completely and that the propane is turned off.

Drink Responsibly

If you’ll be drinking, make a safety plan ahead of time. Decide what your drink limit will be, consume plenty of water, and do not drink and drive. Elect a designated driver, call a rideshare, stay with friends, or find another safe way home.

How much is too much?

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) advises that men from age 21 to 65 have no more than four drinks in a day. Women should have no more than three. Consume plenty of water in addition to your beverage of choice and don’t drink on an empty stomach. Don’t drink and drive. Elect a designated driver, call a rideshare, or find another safe way home.

Final thoughts

These Memorial Day Safety tips are useful and can be put into use all year round, whether it’s a holiday or not. Pay attention to those around you whether you’re near water, a firepit, or something else. Take plenty of water with you and stay hydrated! Learn about alcoholic beverage consumption from the NIH.

Have a safe Memorial Day weekend from all of us at A.R.M.

 

 

 

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