As Memorial Day approaches, it's important to remember that this holiday, dedicated to honoring the brave men and women who sacrificed their lives in service to our country, is also a time for friends and families to come together and enjoy the beginning of summer. Before you engage in various activities like barbecues, outdoor adventures, and road trips, it's vital to prioritize safety to ensure a fun holiday for all!

1. Grill Safety.

Grilling is an integral part of Memorial Day celebrations. Whether you're grilling hot dogs, burgers, veggies, or something else, remember the following safety tips:

• Set up your grill in a well-ventilated outdoor area away from flammable objects.
• Keep children and pets at a safe distance from the grill.
• Never leave the grill unattended and ensure it is turned off properly after use.
• Use long-handled and heat-resistant tools to avoid burns, and have a properly rated fire extinguisher nearby in case of emergencies.

2. Don't Forget to Drink: Water That Is!

Memorial Day often coincides with rising temperatures, especially in the Southeast such as Western North Carolina. Staying hydrated helps to prevent and reduce the risk of heat-related illnesses, such as heat exhaustion or heatstroke.

• Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you don't feel thirsty. Did you know that by the time you already feel thirsty, you're already mildly dehydrated?
• Limit the amount of alcohol you drink as it can contribute to dehydration and also poor judgment which could cause potential safety hazards.
• If you engage in physical activities or spend time outdoors, take regular breaks in cool, tree-shaded areas, and remember to use sunscreen to protect your skin from sunburn.

3. Practice Water Safety, Especially if Children Are Around. 

If you plan to spend Memorial Day near bodies of water, such as pools, lakes, or the ocean, staying safe around water should be of the utmost importance. Many water accidents and drowning hazards can be prevented by following some of the precautions below. 

• Be mindful of strong currents, tides, and underwater hazards such as animals, and sharp rocks. If the weather isn't good for swimming or being around water, don't risk it. Strong thunderstorms, lightning, hurricanes, high tides, or strong winds may impact your ability to stay safe around water. Make sure you know the weather before spending the day on the water!
• Ensure everyone knows how to swim or wears appropriate flotation devices; this is true of people of all ages, but ESPECIALLY children. 
• Never leave children unattended near water, even for a moment. Designate a responsible, sober adult to supervise them at all times and take turns watching children so no one person gets fatigued from babysitting. 
• Avoid drinking alcohol or using other substances while swimming or operating watercraft that can affect your ability to stay alert and pay attention to what is going on. 

4. Driving Safety. 

Memorial Day weekend often sees an increase in road and air travel. Be prepared by being mindful of the following:

• Before your trip, ensure your vehicle is in good condition by checking the tires, brakes, lights, and fluid levels. It may go without saying, but ensure you have enough gas in your car to get to where you need to as well!
• Click it or Ticket—Ensure all passengers in your vehicle have their seat belts on. If you have small children who may need car seats or booster seats, ensure they are installed properly and buckled in tight to keep them safe. 
• Don't speed. Observe posted speed limits, don't text, browse the internet, check social media, watch videos, or apply makeup while you're driving. If you struggle with distracted driving, put your phone on driving mode, silent, or invest in a hands-free device stand/holder to help reduce driving distractions. If you need your phone for GPS, put it in an appropriate phone holder or consider buying a GPS-only device. 
• Be patient and courteous to fellow drivers, and never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

5. Fireworks Safety.

Fireworks are often a part of Memorial Day celebrations, but they can be dangerous if not handled properly. Keep in mind that pets, people with PTSD, and others may be negatively affected by fireworks, and be respectful of other's needs and concerns before using them. 

• Familiarize yourself with local laws and regulations regarding fireworks use.
• Only use legal fireworks from reputable sources and follow all safety instructions.
• Keep a bucket of water or a hose nearby in case of accidental fires.
• Designate a responsible, sober adult to supervise the fireworks display and keep spectators at a safe distance.
• Don't play around with or chase people with fireworks.
• Lock all pets up in a quiet, safe room so they don't run away or go missing when fireworks are lit; especially if they're already fearful of fireworks. 
• Throw all firework trash away and do not allow children to light or play with fireworks. Even sparklers can burn around 2000 degrees Fahrenheit which can cause considerable damage and injury to children especially who may not know how to be safe around them.

Memorial Day is an opportunity to honor and remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country while enjoying quality time with loved ones. By following some of these safety tips, you can ensure that the holiday remains memorable for all the right reasons and not for the wrong reasons such as accidental injury. Whether you're grilling, swimming, driving, or enjoying fireworks, prioritizing safety will help prevent accidents and create a positive and meaningful experience for everyone involved.

Cherish this day of remembrance and celebrate responsibly!