Keep safety in mind is key to a successful Labor Day weekend

By Jazmine Knight

Labor Day weekend is a great time to unwind, enjoy the sun and have fun with family and friends, but being mindful of risks is important to ensure everyone stays safe. 

Some popular Labor Day traditions include grilling with friends and family, enjoying a relaxing day at the lake or even traveling.

Frank Till, executive director of the St. Joseph Safety and Health Council, said his favorite Labor Day tradition is going to relax at Table Rock Lake. But regardless of how you spend your Labor Day, various activities present their own dangers to watch out for.

For grilling, it’s important to keep kids and/or pets away from the grilling area. Grills could fall or tip over, or someone could burn themselves if not careful.

To prevent food-borne illnesses or food poisoning, pay attention to the area that food is stored in.

“We need to make sure that our hot food is kept hot and our cold food is kept cold,” Till said. “A lot of people get food poisoning. especially at these holiday events, because we get to having fun and we leave our food out too long, and things just happen.”

He suggests visiting places like Walmart or Target for temperature monitors or temperature gauges.

To avoid overheating or suffering from heat emergencies, remember to use sunscreen, hydrate and stay in the shade.

“Make sure we have shade available for everybody at the party,” said Till.

The lake is also a great way to escape during Labor Day. Till said those hanging out on the water should make sure children have life jackets and a designated adult who can watch them.

“We never trust one child to watch another child near a body of water,” Till said.

Adults should also take extra caution when drinking alcohol at the lake. Designate a driver who will remain sober.

“We need to make sure that we don’t overindulge in the alcohol when we’re on the water,” he said.

Drinking responsibly is key, and driving or operating any motor vehicles while under the influence should be avoided.

“Impairment happens long before slurred speech and reckless behavior,” Till said.

For those who are drinking, remember to stay hydrated. Try switching between alcohol and another drink such as water or tea.

“And if one of our friends or family says, ‘Hey, you need to slow down,’ we probably need to pay attention to that and maybe cut it off for the day,” he said.

For those who are traveling, please keep in mind the extra traffic on the road this weekend.

“So we need to give ourselves a little extra time when we’re driving. Plan our route well before we go,” said Till.

It’s important to know your directions prior to getting on the road. Once en route, remember to obey all traffic laws and avoid driving impaired.

“Last year, I believe there were 15 traffic fatalities over Labor Day weekend. You know, the only acceptable number for us is zero,” said Till.

No matter how the weekend is spent, just remember to have fun and be safe while doing so.