The final Monday of May is days away, which is when we pay tribute to the troops who served in the United States military and gave their lives for our freedom. On the one hand, Memorial Day is a commemorative holiday when we give appreciation for our military, but it is also an opportunity to celebrate this country, the men and women currently serving, and a time to enjoy a day off work with family and friends.
Many Memorial Day celebrations involve outdoor activities, yummy food and warm weather. While you’re enjoying all that the holiday offers, make sure to follow the below safety tips to keep you and yours free from danger while getting ready for the festivities.
Grilling
• Move the grill away from the side of the house
• Look at the gas hose to ensure no breaks
• Clean all areas of the grill
• Keep a non-expired fire extinguisher close-by
• Ask an adult to supervise at all times
Fire Pit
• Place the fire pit a safe distance away from the house
• Toss sand on the fire to extinguish the flames completely
• Do not dispose of coals until they have cooled completely
Air Conditioning
• Change filters regularly
• Check outlets and wires for electrical problems
• Schedule A/C maintenance once a year
Cooking
• Move flammable material away from the stove top (oven mitts, plastic, towels)
• Enforce a “kid-free zone” in the kitchen
• Do not leave the kitchen while cooking
Garden Hose
• Unless the label on your hose says “drinking water safe,” refrain from drinking from it
o Many water hoses contain harmful substance
• Before use, let the water run for a short time to flush out any sitting water
• If you require an updated hose, try a rubber hose that does not use harmful plastic
Fireworks
• Contact your local police dept. to make sure fireworks are legal in your community
• Do not let kids play with fireworks
o Even sparklers can reach 1800 degrees Fahrenheit! *kidshealth.org
• Keep a bucket of water or hose nearby for precautionary reasons
• Point fireworks away from homes and explosive material
We hope these few tips will help keep your loved ones safe during the 2015 Memorial Day weekend. Always remember that if you experience any property damage to Call Paul! We’re available round-the-clock to assist with building destruction caused by fire, water, mold or wind.
-Your friends at Paul Davis
