Red Cross Offers Tips for a Safe Holiday Weekend

As summer winds down with the advent of Labor Day, the American Red Cross wants you to stay safe—and prepared—as you enjoy the long weekend.

Hurricane season is nearing its peak, and although storms are not forecast to affect the U.S. this weekend, it’s important to listen to news outlets for updates, particularly if you live in an area commonly affected by tropical systems.

Check your emergency kit and restock any supplies needed. This may be especially necessary for those on the East Coast who recently dealt with Hurricane Irene. Make an emergency plan for members of your household, including your pets. More information on how to prepare for hurricanes and other emergencies is available on www.redcross.org.

Many families will hit the road sometime over the holiday weekend, so the Red Cross offers these travel tips to keep you safe on the highway:

-Pay attention to the weather forecast for your destination.
-Buckle up, slow down, and don’t drink and drive. Designate a driver who won’t drink.
-Be well rested and alert; give your full attention to the road.
-Observe speed limits, and use caution in work zones.
-Clean your vehicle’s lights and windows to help you see, especially at night.
-Turn your headlights on as dusk approaches and during inclement weather.
-Keep a disaster supply kit in your trunk.
-If you have car trouble, pull as far as possible off the highway.
-Let someone know your destination, your route and when you expect to arrive. If your car gets stuck along the way, help can be sent along your predetermined route.

If you’re planning to send off summer with a barbeque, here are reminders to help your grilling go safely:

-Always supervise a barbeque grill when in use.
-Never grill indoors – not in your house, camper, tent, or any enclosed area.
-Make sure everyone, including the pets, stays away from the grill.
-Keep the grill out in the open, away from the house, the deck, tree branches, or anything that could catch fire.
-Use the long-handled tools especially made for cooking on the grill to keep the chef safe.
-Never add charcoal starter fluid when coals have already been ignited.

The Red Cross hopes everyone enjoys their Labor Day weekend and stays safe whatever their plans may be. For more information, visit the Preparedness section of www.redcross.org.

About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies nearly half of the nation’s blood; teaches lifesaving skills; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a charitable organization — not a government agency — and depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit www.redcross.org