Posted in Accident & Injury on May 23, 2014

Like many of you, at Elk & Elk, we’re looking forward to celebrating Memorial Day weekend with family and friends. Whether you’re travelling out of state, down the road, or even enjoying a “stay-cation” at home, here are some important safety tips.

Highway Safety Tips

• Pay attention. Distracted driving puts everyone at risk. Avoid distractions such as cell phones.
• Keep your distance. Follow the 3-second rule to ensure you don’t follow another vehicle too closely.
• Don’t drink and drive or travel with anyone who has been drinking.
• Make frequent stops. During long trips, rotate drivers. Stop and rest if you’re too tired to drive.
• Buckle up. Wear your safety belt at all times and make sure kids are properly secured in age/weight appropriate seats.
• Do a pre-road trip checkup. Ensure your car’s tires are properly inflated, the fluids are topped off, and that all belts and hoses are in good condition. Check to make sure all lights and turn signals are in working order – especially if you’re towing a trailer.

Food Safety

• Wash hands thoroughly with soap and warm water before handling food and after handling raw poultry or meat.
• Avoid cross-contamination of bacteria. Keep uncooked meats away from other foods.
• Cook foods thoroughly, especially ground beef, poultry, and pork.
• Refrigerate all perishable food within two hours.

 Grilling Safety

• Keep it clean. When using a grill, be sure to clean it thoroughly to remove any grease or dust.
• Check for gas leaks.Check the gas tank hose for leaks before using it for the first time each year. Apply a light soap and water solution to the hose. A propane leak will release bubbles.
• Use the grill outside, not in a garage, porch, or other enclosed space. The grill should be placed well away from the home, deck railings, out from under eaves, and overhanging branches.
• Keep children and pets away from the grill area and never leave a hot grill unattended.
• Put it out. After grilling, make sure you turn off the propane. If you plan to use a fire pit, be sure to put out the fire completely before leaving.

Water and Boating Safety

• Never swim alone. Even an experienced swimmer can get into trouble. Supervise children at all times in and near the water.
• Wear Life Jackets when boating. Make sure you have personal flotation devices (PFDs) for all aboard and make sure children wear a USCG-approved properly fitting life jacket at all times.
• Alcohol and boating don’t mix. Consuming alcoholic beverages in excess will affect perception, reaction time and decision-making.

No matter what your plans are this Memorial Day weekend, staying hydrated is important, so remember to drink lots of water. If you’re going to be in the sun, put on sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher before going outdoors.