PRINCETON – Memorial Day marks the official start of the summer season on the Jersey Shore. Though the weekend marks the somber remembrance of those who died in service to their country, it is a weekend for road trips, picnics and barbecues, and dips in the ocean and pool.
The American Red Cross offers these safety tips for the weekend.
Water Safety
Know how to swim.
Adults should stay close to young children and newer swimmers.
Pools and spas should be fenced in on all sides with four-foot fencing and self-closing, self-latching gates.
Everyone, even experienced swimmers, should swim with a buddy and only in designated areas near lifeguards.
Know how to rescue a distressed swimmer without risking your own life. Know when to call 911, and know how to perform CPR.
Wear your life jacket when on a boat.
Driving Safety
Drive only when well rested. Wear seatbelts and obey posted speeds.
Designate a driver.
Don’t text and drive.
Use caution in road work zones.
Maintain a safe distance between vehicles. No tailgating.
Clean the vehicle’s windows and lights. Turn on headlights at dusk or in inclement weather. When following or approaching other vehicles, turn off your high beam lights.
Carry an emergency/disaster kit in your car.
Keep plenty of gas in your tank. If you experience car trouble, pull off as far as possible off the road.
Let someone know where you are going and what route you plan to take.
Grilling Safety
Never leave a grill unattended.
Only use a grill outdoors. Not in the house, camper, tent or other enclosed area. Keep the grill away from the house, deck, tree branches, or anything else that can catch fire.
Keep everyone, including pets, away from the grill.
Use tools made for grills.
Don’t add charcoal starter to coals that have been ignited. Read the manufacturer’s directions on how to use your grill.
