Labor Day weekend is on the horizon! It is well known for being the last summer hoorah for traveling before fall weather creeps in. Whatever you may have planned this weekend – whether it is travelling, grilling, a picnic in the park, swimming with your family – here are a few safety tips to consider.

Road Trip Fun –  Labor Day weekend is one of the busiest travel holidays. Unfortunately, this also means an increase in the number of traffic accidents. National Safety Council (NSC) estimates that around 400 deaths are attributed to collisions that occur on Labor Day Weekend. Before you head out, have your car checked by a mechanic to avoid the possibility of a breakdown. Keep an emergency kit in your car so that you have jumper cables, a flashlight, a tool kit and a first aid kit. Make sure you get plenty of rest before driving and take turns driving if possible.

Alcohol Moderation – If you are planning to attend festivities that include drinking, set a limit on how many drinks you will have and stick to it. Drinking impairs your ability to make decisions, your reaction time, your coordination and your vision. Please do not drive after you have been drinking! Call a friend, a family member or Lyft.

Boat Safely – Prior to heading out on your boat, make sure it is in sound mechanical condition. Equip your boat with proper safety devices, an emergency kit and a first aid kit. Let someone on land know where you are planning on going and your return time. Boating activities are certainly fun, but can also be potentially dangerous if you fail to take proper safety precautions.

Food Bourne Illness –  I don’t know about your family, but ours certainly loves to grill on Labor Day weekend! Any time you grill, there is always the possibility of cross food contamination. If you are handling raw meat, wash your hands thoroughly before and after you touch it. Dry your hands with paper towels instead of cloth towels. Do not leave meat or poultry out in the heat. Instead, store them in a refrigerator until it is time to cook them.

Hydration and Sun Protection –  If you are having an outdoor get together, make sure you stay hydrated with plenty of water! Sun can not only dehydrate your body, it can also attack your skin. Be sure to use plenty of sunscreen and reapply as necessary. This is especially important for the young and elderly, as they have the most sensitive skin.

I sincerely hope that all of you have an amazing Labor Day weekend!