Memorial Day is the unofficial start to summer, and as thousands of Georgians pack up their car to take a vacation over the long-weekend, the American Red Cross is offering some safety tips.
According to the American Automobile Association (AAA), 1.3 million Georgians will travel at least 50 miles from home for Memorial Day weekend.
Red Cross is sharing guidance on how to stay safe throughout the summer during travel, near water, when dealing with heat-related illnesses and while grilling.
With temperatures rising, bodies of water are a popular destination for many travelers. Drivers heading out should be well rested, wear seatbelts and take frequent breaks along the way.
Suzanne Lawler, Red Cross public information officer, said it’s important to use the buddy system when entering the water.
“We did it when we were kids, right? Whether you are a teenager, an adult, or a child, swim with a buddy just so you know where each other are,” Lawler said.
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Spending time in the sun and swimming can be enjoyable, but heat-related illness can set in quickly. Mild dehydration symptoms can develop within one to two hours of intense physical activity or exposure to high heat.
Pets are also vulnerable to extreme heat, with heat stroke sometimes becoming fatal. Dogs with long coats or short snouts, such as pugs and French bulldogs, are at higher risk. Signs of heat stroke include excessive panting, brick-red gums or lethargy.
“You know your dog’s personality,” Lawler said.
Burgers and hot dogs on the grill can be a sign of good weather and fellowship on a summer’s day, but, on average, more than 10,000 home fires in the United States are caused by grills.
Lawler said grills should always be used outdoors on a sturdy, flat surface — never under a carport or in a sunroom. Here are safety tips from the American Red Cross' website:
Grilling safety tips:
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Keep the grill out in the open, away from the house, deck, tree branches or anything that could catch fire.
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Always supervise a barbecue grill when in use. Don’t add charcoal starter fluid when coals have already been ignited.
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Never grill indoors — not in the house, camper, tent or any enclosed area.
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Make sure everyone, including pets, stays away from the grill.
Safe travel tips:
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Be well rested and alert, use your seat belts, observe speed limits and follow the rules of the road.
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If you plan on drinking alcohol, designate a driver who won’t drink.
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Give your full attention to the road. Avoid distractions such as cell phones.
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Use caution in work zones. There are lots of construction projects underway on the highways.
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Don’t follow other vehicles too closely.
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Don’t overdrive your headlights (drive at a speed where you can stop within the distance you can see).
Beach safety tips:
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Pack a first aid kit to handle insect stings, sprains, cuts and bruises and other injuries that could happen to someone in your group. Take a Red Cross First Aid and CPR course and download the First Aid app so that you will know what to do in case help is delayed. You’ll learn how to treat severe wounds, broken bones, bites and stings and more.
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Sprains and falls are some of the most common misfortunes travelers may face. Falls are the biggest threat, many due to poor decision-making, lack of skill or not being properly prepared. Dehydration is also a danger. Plan ahead for these dangers.
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Share your travel plans and locations with a family member, neighbor or friend.
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Bring nutritious food items and water, light-weight clothing to layer and supplies for any pets.
Summer and pet safety tips:
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Don’t leave your pet in a hot vehicle, even for a few minutes. The inside temperature of the car can quickly reach 120 degrees even with the windows cracked open.
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If you suspect your pet has heat stroke, take their temperature rectally. If the temperature is above 105 degrees, cool the animal down. The easiest way to do this is by using the water hose. Stop cooling the animal when the temperature reaches 103 degrees
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Bring your pet to the veterinarian as soon as possible as heat stroke can lead to severe organ dysfunction and damage. Download the Red Cross Pet First Aid app for instant access on how to treat heat stroke, other emergencies and general care for cats and dogs and take the Cat and Dog First Aid Online Training course.
Ansley Franco is a reporter with the Savannah Morning News, covering public safety and general assignments. You can reach her at AFranco@gannett.com. - Google Search
This article originally appeared on Savannah Morning News:Stay safe this Memorial Day with travel, heat and water safety tips