Memorial Day: Outdoor Safety Tips for the Elderly

Memorial Day: Outdoor Safety Tips for the Elderly

Traditionally, Memorial Day is usually spent with family and friends around a grill. In order to have a fun, carefree Memorial Day, you have to take some safety precautions: 

Grill Safety: Before you grill, there are some important safety to ensure that the grill is functioning properly and to avoid any fires.

1.Place the grill far away from your home, your deck, trees, shrubs and any flammable items.

2. Scrub the grill! Remove all grease and fat. It can catch on fire if it isn’t cleaned properly

3. If you’re using a charcoal grill, be careful about using starter fluid. Ensure that it is out of the reach of children and pets, and only use starter fluid. Don’t use any other accelerants!

4. If you’re using a propane grill, check the gas tank hose for leaks. The National Fire Protection Association has a great test: apply soapy water to the gas hose. If there is a leak, you will see bubbles. If not, then start grilling!

5.Read the complete list of tips from NFPA here.

Food Safety: Practice extreme caution while handling raw food!

1. While handling raw meat, wash your hands for at least 20 seconds before and after handling food.

2. Ensure that the coals are lightly coated with ash.  Check that hamburgers reach an internal temperature of 160°F, large cuts of beef reach 154°F, and poultry reaches 165°F.

3. Read this list of food safety tips from the USDA here. 

Elderly Safety: Heat stroke and heat related illness can be a serious problem for seniors.

1. Have plenty of water available to keep your elderly loved ones hydrated.

2.When you’re setting up, be sure to place several lawn chairs and tables in shaded areas to keep your senior loved ones cool.

3. Leave the air conditioning or fans on inside a room so that seniors can rest there if needed.

4. Leave bottles of sunblock outside for your guests to use, and ensure that your senior loved one wears light, breathable clothing and a hat.

5. Know the symptoms of heat exhaustion and seek medical attention if any of your guests start showing any symptoms! You can see the full list of symptoms here.

Hope everyone has a safe and fun Memorial Day!