With Memorial Day quickly approaching, it is important to take safety into consideration regardless of your plans. Many of us will be heading out on the roads with boats/trailers, motorcycles, travel trailers and more, with our destination as the focus at hand. Here are some quick tips for some of the popular activities some of you may be enjoying.

 

Boating/Swimming:

  • Boat maintenance is important. When taking a boat out of storage, it is important to inspect your boat and trailer. There may be damage from the previous season that was missed, or damage may have occurred while the boat and/or trailer were in storage.
  • Drinking while operating a boat is as illegal as drinking and operating a car. Be sure to have a designated driver and a safe ride to and from your destination planned. Many lakes will see higher traffic.
  • There are not only boats on the water but people swimming in the water as well. If you are operating a boat, be sure to watch out for those swimming in the water. If you are swimming in the water, be sure to keep an eye out for boats. Make sure children in the water are always attended.
  • Wearing a life jacket is always a good idea. Even if you know how to swim, the Midwest has seen many storms recently that have led to flooding. Water levels may be higher, currents faster, and you may be swimming among dangerous debris that could cause injury.
  • Make sure you have a safety plan in place. You should make sure someone is aware of where you will be, when you plan to return, and be sure to have a flare or first aid kit. Always keep water and sunscreen on board (and be sure to make use of them).

 

Camping/Hiking:

  • Camping is the perfect time to cook smores around a fire. While we are certainly not in a drought at the moment, wildfires can still occur and can spread quickly. Be sure that your fire is controlled and that it is FULLY extinguished before retiring to your tent or camper.
  • Don’t pet the fluffy cows! Please be sure to give wildlife space. Even small animals can cause harm in the form of bites, disease, and infection. Many animals will abandon their young if they smell an unfamiliar scent.
  • Bugs are EVERYWHERE! While most are harmless, mosquitoes and ticks are not. It is important to use repellant. If you don’t like the smell of repellant or the feel of it on your skin, there are many natural scents that will deter different types of bugs. If you happen to get bitten, keep an eye on the area for telltale signs/symptoms from spider and tick bites.
  • Make sure there is shelter nearby if there is a possibility of inclement weather. If it is hot, you should have some sort of shade available, sunscreen, water, and possibly a fan and hat.
  • Pack a first aid kit. There are many ways to get injured when camping or hiking. Be sure to pack antihistamines, bandages, antibacterial ointment, alcohol wipes, coban or a cloth wrap, etc. Most popular camping locations or national parks will have hints and tips on their websites as well.

 

Fireworks:

  • There are different laws regarding the use of fireworks depending on where you live. Please be sure you are abiding by those laws to ensure safety. When used properly and safely, fireworks can be fun.
  • Fireworks are explosives. Accidents are more likely to occur if you are handling them while inebriated. Be sure you are alert. NEVER hold a firework in your hand when discharged.
  • Be sure you have some sort of fire suppressant on hand. A bucket, hose, or extinguisher are all good options.
  • Please keep fireworks away from children. If you are allowing your children to play with sparklers, you should light it yourself and hand it to them. Make sure they are not holding the sparkler too far up to avoid burns.
  • You should always be outdoors in an open area when setting off fireworks. Direct them away from people, animals, fields, homes, and cars. You can fill a bucket with dirt and place the firework securely in the dirt, aimed directly upwards. If you intend to light the fuse, you should be wearing safely glasses. Once the fuse has been lit, retreat to a safe distance.

 

Driving/Biking:

  • Driving or operating a motor vehicle is always illegal if you are under the influence or intoxicated. If you intend to drink you should plan on rides in advance, call someone you know for a safe ride, or use a rideshare service.
  • With so many of us traveling for the weekend, it is important to be a courteous driver. Be sure to use your blinker and not tailgate other drivers to avoid accidents and keep your plans intact.
  • Many bikers are out for joy rides this weekend. It is always important to keep an eye out when changing lanes. All vehicles have a blind spot in their side view mirrors. You should also check out the windows before changing lanes and offer all drivers to see your blinker before moving over.
  • Semis are still on the road this weekend. Many are working through the holiday to ensure that our products make it to their destinations. Please allow enough room and warning before merging in front of a semi. They have much more momentum than a private passenger vehicle and have a much longer stopping distance.
  • Always wear your seat belt in case of an accident.
  • If you are out on a bike this weekend, wear your helmet. It is encouraged to wear a leather jacket, full length pants, and close toed footwear. Road rash can do an incredible amount of damage.

 

We at Phillips Stafford Insurance Group would like to remind you not to post on social media about your travel plans. If you would like to make a post, wait until you have returned home. Someone should be keeping an eye on your home. A close friend, family member, or neighbor should know your travel plans so they can watch your home and make sure you return home safely. We would like to wish you safe travels and a fun-filled weekend.