Tips for Memorial Day safety

Memorial Day marks the beginning of summer for many Americans, especially for those of us in places like the Seattle area where the weather hasn’t been that warm and sunny yet.

Since people will be swimming, boating, barbecuing, and watching Memorial Day parades, here are safety tips to help you get through your holiday safely.

If you’re boating, be sure to wear a life jacket, even if the weather is nice. It could save a life.

If you and your family will be swimming, being safe can help prevent injuries and drowning. Safety tips include:

• Avoid alcohol when swimming.

• Don't swim alone, or in bad weather.

• Supervise your children when they are in the water.

• Prevent sunburns by using sunscreen.

If you’re having a barbecue or going on a picnic, follow these food safety rules:

• Keep cold food cold.

• Keep everything clean.

• Cook food thoroughly.

• Keep hot food hot.

• Don’t leave food out for more than one hour in 90 degree weather.

• Refrigerate leftovers promptly.

If you’re traveling, see USA.gov’s "Travel Safety" for safety tips for those traveling by air or car.

If you or your children will be riding an ATV, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission urges you to use caution because deaths climb during the Memorial Day holiday weekend.

For the four-day period surrounding the 2009 Memorial Day holiday, there were 27 fatalities, with two under age 16, averaging almost seven deaths a day.

If you’re attending a Memorial Day parade or an event outdoors, be sure to wear a hat, take water, and wear shoes that are good for walking.

Copyright 2010, Rita R. Robison, Consumer Specialist