Labor Day Weekend Safety
Labor Day weekend is almost here! While autumn doesn’t begin until late September* many consider Labor Day to be the unofficial end of the summer season. Children in many states return to school the following week. Fall sports begin shortly thereafter, and the weather starts to shift. Labor Day provides one last chance for a summer party or a final summer weekend getaway!
No matter what your plans are for the holiday weekend, keep safety in mind. Whether you plan to celebrate with a cookout, a road trip, or other festivities, continue reading for tips on how to keep your Labor Day weekend safe and fun!
*This year, the first day of fall is Saturday, September 23, 2023.
Driving Safety
Labor Day weekend is a very popular weekend to travel – in fact, it’s one of the most popular travel weekends in the entire year. Plus, more Americans are expected to travel this Labor Day weekend than last year, whether via airplane or vehicle.
Whether you are embarking on a road trip this Labor Day weekend or simply plan to take part in local festivities, take the necessary precautions to ensure you reach your destination safely.
Before long trips, check your car to make sure it can handle the drive.
Regardless of the distance you’ll travel, always remember to wear your seatbelt and NEVER drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
For more information on driving safety this holiday weekend, read our blog: Labor Day Weekend Safe Driving Tips
Food Safety
Having a cookout this weekend? You’re not alone! According to Statista.com, Labor Day is the third most popular grilling holiday. Independence Day tops the list (in 2020, 68% of Americans said they would grill on the holiday!), and Memorial Day & Labor Day round off the top three.
If you plan to host or attend a cookout during the holiday weekend, keep yourself and your guests safe from food-borne illnesses.
Did you know that bacteria multiply faster at temperatures between 40°F and 140°F? Bacteria thrive in warm, moist environments. Make sure to take a few simple steps to ensure you and your guests have safe food to consume!
Read our Labor Day Food Safety blog to learn how you can safely prepare and consume food at your Labor Day celebrations: Labor Day Food Safety
Outdoor Safety
Since Labor Day marks the unofficial end of summer, you’ll likely be spending at least some time outside this weekend.
Whether you plan to travel or stay local, it’s important to take the necessary precautions to stay safe outdoors.
Here are some outdoor safety reminders to keep in mind during your festivities:
Stay hydrated, and listen to your body! If you feel too hot, take a break from the outdoors.
Wear sunscreen (at least SPF 30).
Keep children and pets away from the grill.
After spending time outdoors, check yourself, your children, and your pets for ticks.
For more tips on staying safe outdoors – from sun smarts to avoiding backyard pests – read our Backyard Safety Guide!
