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CSFA Community Risk Reduction
Why not start out with this message for your community:
“This Labor Day let’s celebrate safely. Firefighters are on watch however, we need your help to help us reduce risk by grilling responsibly, driving cautiously, and staying cool.”
The first Monday of September is when many workers take the day off and enjoy time relaxing with friends and family for Labor Day.
Many Americans will turn the time off into an extended weekend by hosting barbecues, going on a mini vacation, or spending time outdoors. In most parts of the country, this is the last time families can enjoy the outdoors together before winter arrives. Here are some safety reminders to share with your community:
Barbecue and Picnic Safety
Barbecues and picnics will occur across the country during Labor Day weekend, and cooking outdoors can trigger a number of physical and healthsafety concerns. Make sure to thaw meat out completely by placing it in the refrigerator, which will reduce the chances of bacteria growing. Keep cold foods in an insulated cooler when transporting to someone’s house or to the park. When serving food from a buffet table, make sure to put cold food back in the refrigerator immediately after the first wave of guests have grabbed their food. Cook meat as you need it and do not leave a stack of hot dogs or hamburgers out on the table for hours after they are cooked. Keep a close eye on the grill to ensure there are not fires or children do not put their hands on the hot grates.
Beach Safety
When at the beach, remember to protect your skin and eyes from the rays of the sun by wearing cover ups, sun screen, sunglasses and hats. Take a dip in the water periodically throughout the day to cool off your skin and body. Keep kids within sight and arms reach when in the water and never swim alone.
Pool Safety
Never leave children unattended in a pool. Have self-closing and latching gates around the pool. Make sure children wear US Coast Guard approved life vests. Assign a person to be on “pool watch” when children are swimming.
Road Travel
Whether driving to the beach or going away for Labor Day weekend, you will want to take your time to ensure you and your family arrive safely. Millions of drivers hit the road to go to visit family friends, barbecues or a weekend getaway. When driving through parking lots and neighborhood streets, keep an eye out for kids who may be out and about playing. Always look twice when turning and crossing streets, especially for motorcycles and bicycles which are smaller and not as visible as cars. Remember to not drink and drive and always wear your seat belt.
Boating/Kayak/Paddle Board Safety
Put your watercraft in the water for one last time this summer and relaxing. Before leaving make sure you are equipped with all necessary safety equipment, including enough gas, life vests and a first-aid kit (for a boat). Leave your float plan with a trusted friend or family member and when you are expected to return. This way authorities have an idea where to search if you do not make it back home.
Editor’s note: California State Firefighters Association is honored to help your agency with Community Risk Reduction articles for you to use for your agency’s social media, press releases to local media, cable tv, or presentations to community organizations etc. These articles are intended to reduce fires, accidents, and injuries by sharing these within your community. This week’s article is designated for Flashflood Safety during our summer monsoon months. This article and its content can be used at your discretion at any time you feel is appropriate for your community. Do you need other resources for Community Risk Reduction, or do you have questions on how to best use these resources? Feel free to contact [email protected]
Sam DiGiovanna is a 40-year fire service veteran. He started with the Los Angeles County Fire Department, served as Fire Chief at the Monrovia Fire Department, and currently serves as Chief at the Verdugo Fire Academy in Glendale. He is Director at Large with the California State Firefighters Association, Associate Director for the California Training Officers Association and a consultant for www.Lexipol.com