20 Tips for a Safe Labor Day Weekend

9/2/2020 (Permalink)

2020 Labor Day weekend is here! Whether you are relaxing at the beach, hanging by the pool, or enjoying the outdoors, it's important to stay safe! Here are 20 safety tips from the American Red Cross.

DRIVING SAFETY

1. Be well rested, alert, and use your seat belts. Pay attention to speed limits and follow the rules of the road. Clean your headlights for driving at night.
2. Don’t drink and drive. Have a designated driver or call an Uber/Lyft.
3. Pay attention to the road & avoid distractions such as cellphones.
4. Use caution in work zones & look out for construction projects on the highways.
5. Don't drive too close to the person in front of you.

HEAT SAFETY

1. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, especially if drinking caffeine or alcohol.
2. Avoid extreme temperatures.
3. Wear loose, lightweight, light colored clothing. Beware the dark colors absorb the sun’s rays.
4. Avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest part of the day, and make sure to take a break from the heat...especially if you plan on spending your weekend outdoors.
5. Postpone outdoor games and activities if you feel overheated or dehydrated.

BEACH SAFETY

1. If you plan to swim in the ocean, lake or river, be cautious that conditions are different than swimming in a pool. Wear a life jacket if needed.
2. Only swim in designated swimming areas. Obey all instructions and orders from lifeguards and ask them about local conditions.
3. Make sure to always swim with someone else. Don't push your limits, and make sure you have enough energy to swim back to shore.
4. Never dive headfirst. There's no way of knowing how deep the water actually is. Walk carefully into open waters. Watch out for and avoid aquatic life. Water plants and animals can be dangerous.
5. If you are caught in a rip current, try not to panic. Signal to those on shore that you need assistance. Swim parallel to the shore until you are out of the current. Once you are free, swim toward shore. If you can't swim to the shore, float or tread water until you are free of the rip current and then head toward shore.

BE SAFE IN THE GREAT OUTDOORS

1. Take a First Aid/CPR course so that you will know what to do in case help is delayed. You’ll learn how to treat severe wounds, broken bones, bites and stings and more.
2. Know your groups level of ability in the environment around you. Plan accordingly. Sprains and falls are some of the most common accidents travelers may face.
3. Beware of dehydration. Make sure to bring enough water and stay hydrated.
4. Share your travel plans and locations with a family member, neighbor or friend.
5. Pack a First Aid Kit – be sure to include insect repellent, sunscreen and personal medications."

source: American Red Cross. link here: redcross.org