sunscreen

Fire Up the Grill: Your Guide to a Fun (and Safe) Memorial Day Weekend

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person serving food from a backyard grill.

Memorial Day weekend – the unofficial kick-off to summer! The days are longer, the sun is hotter, and the smell of burgers sizzling on the grill fills the air. It’s a time for backyard cookouts, pool parties, and soaking up all the good vibes that come with warmer weather.

But before you dive headfirst into summer fun, let’s take a moment to talk safety. Because with all the excitement, it’s important to be mindful of a few things to keep your Memorial Day memorable for all the right reasons.

 

Grilling Savvy

  • Food Prep is Key: Keep raw meat separate from cooked food to avoid cross-contamination. Marinate beforehand in the fridge, not on the counter. And always use a food thermometer to ensure your burgers, chicken, and hot dogs reach the proper internal temperature.
  • Grill Master with Safety: Make sure your grill is clean and in good working order before firing it up. Keep a fire extinguisher handy in case of flare-ups, and never leave a hot grill unattended.

CDC Grill Safety Infographic

 

Poolside Paradise – with Caution

  • Adult Supervision: Whether it’s an inflatable kiddie pool or a backyard oasis, designate a responsible adult to keep an eye on swimmers, especially young children.
  • Safety First: Make sure your pool is properly fenced in and consider flotation devices for those who need them.

More Pool Safety Tips

 

Sunscreen – A Must

Don’t underestimate the sun’s power! Apply sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) generously and reapply every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating.

More Sun Safety Tips

 

military boots with American flags

Responsible Alcohol Consumption

Memorial Day often involves barbeques and beers, but remember to pace yourself. Stay hydrated with water throughout the day, and designate a sober driver if you’re planning on having alcoholic drinks.

 

A Moment of Remembrance

While Memorial Day weekend is a time for celebration and summer fun, it’s important to remember the true meaning of the holiday. We pause to honor the brave men and women of the U.S. military who have died serving our country. Take a moment to attend a local ceremony, visit a veteran’s memorial, or simply have a conversation with a family member who has served.

Let’s make this Memorial Day weekend a celebration of life, liberty, and the heroes who made it possible. By keeping safety top of mind, we can ensure a fun-filled and respectful holiday for everyone.

Sun’s Out, Fun’s Out — But Let’s Keep Safety in Sight

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mom applying sunscreen to child

As the days lengthen and temperatures rise, many of us look forward to the joys of summer – spending time outdoors with loved ones, engaging in physical activity, and soaking up the sunshine. However, it’s important to remember that prolonged sun exposure can pose significant health risks.

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun is a major contributor to skin cancer, the most common form of cancer in the United States. The American Academy of Dermatology Association estimates that approximately 9,500 people in the U.S. are diagnosed with skin cancer every day. UV radiation can also lead to premature aging, cataracts, and other health problems.

Public health professionals strongly advocate for sun safety practices to minimize these risks and ensure a healthy summer for everyone.

Here are some key recommendations:

  • Sunscreen Application: Broad-spectrum sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 30 or higher is essential. Apply generously to all exposed skin 15 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every two hours or more frequently if swimming or sweating.

  • Seek Shade, Especially Midday: The sun’s rays are strongest between 10 am and 4 pm. Schedule outdoor activities for earlier or later hours, or utilize shade provided by trees, umbrellas, or pop-up tents.

  • Protective Clothing: Sun-protective clothing offers an effective barrier against UV rays. Look for tightly woven fabrics with an Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) rating. Wide-brimmed hats that shade the face, ears, and neck are also recommended.

  • Hydration and Sun Safety Go Hand-in-Hand: Sun exposure increases the risk of dehydration. Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Avoid excessive alcohol consumption, as it can worsen dehydration.

  • Be Aware of Individual Risk Factors: Individuals with fair skin, a history of sunburn, or a family history of skin cancer are at a higher risk for sun damage. These individuals should be particularly vigilant about sun safety measures.

By incorporating these practices into your summer routine, you can significantly reduce your risk of sun-related health problems and enjoy the outdoors safely. Public health professionals are committed to promoting sun safety awareness and encourage everyone to make informed choices to protect themselves and their families.

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