The following safety checklist was obtained through The Villages Community Development Districts Risk Management.
– Never leave a grill or fire unattended, be mindful of the wind and extinguish all fires completely.
– Do not grill indoors, keep grills, bonfires and fire pits away from low-hanging branches and materials that can easily catch fire.
– Never swim alone and try to stay within eyesight of a lifeguard station.
– Do not go swimming, tubing or boating after sunset.
– Wear SFP 15 or higher sunscreen, apply it 30 minutes before exposure and reapply every 2 hours.
– Use sunglasses and a hat to protect your eyes while celebrating outdoors.
– Stay hydrated and take breaks in the shade or indoors as often as possible.
– If you or a family member feels faint or nauseous, move to a cool place immediately and apply cold compresses to help lower body temperature.
– Always wear seat belts and make sure child car seats are properly installed.
– Have your car serviced before a long trip.
– Never drink and drive or allow yourself or anyone else to get into a car with someone who has been drinking.
– Keep a fire extinguisher nearby when using grills or fire pits.
– Cook all meat thoroughly, especially chicken, beef and pork.
– Keep perishables cool.
– Wear a properly fitting US Coast Guard approved life jacket when on a boat.
– Avoid alcohol when swimming, boating or tubing.
– Designate an adult watcher/lifeguard to keep an eye on children in pools, rivers, at the beach or even in hot tubs.
Please stay safe this Memorial Day.