Prepared for Memorial Day Holiday? Use These Safety Tips from Paul Davis

The last Monday of May is days away, which is when we pay tribute to the men and women who served in the United States military and gave their lives for this great nation. On the one hand, Memorial Day is a commemorative holiday when we give thanks for our troops, but it is also an opportunity to celebrate this country, the men and women currently serving, and a time to enjoy the holiday with family/friends.
Many Memorial Day events involve outdoor activities, tasty food and warmer weather. While you’re enjoying all that the holiday offers, make sure to follow the below safety tips to keep your family free from danger while getting ready for the fun activities.

Grilling

• Place the grill away from siding and overhangs of the house
• Check the gas hose to ensure no leaks
• Clean all grease buildup from the grill
• Keep a non-expired fire extinguisher close-by
• Ask an adult to supervise at all times

Fire Pit

• Your fire pit should be located a safe distance away from the house
• Pour sand on the fire to extinguish the flames completely
• Coals should cool completely before disposing

Air Conditioning

• Change filters every couple of months
• Check outlets and wires for electrical problems
• Schedule A/C maintenance annually

Cooking

• Place flammable material away from the stove top (oven mitts, plastic, towels)
• Enforce a “kid-free zone” in the kitchen
• Stay in the kitchen while cooking

Garden Hose

• Unless the label on your hose says “drinking water safe,” do not drink from it
o Many water hoses contain harmful substance
• Before using, let the water run for a few seconds to flush out any sitting water
• If you require a new hose, try a natural hose made from rubber that does not use harmful plastic

Fireworks

• Contact your local police department to make sure fireworks are legal in your area
• Do not let kids play with fireworks
o Even sparklers can reach 1800 degrees Fahrenheit! *kidshealth.org
• Place a bucket of water or hose nearby for precautionary reasons
• Point fireworks away from homes and explosive material
We hope these few suggestions will help keep your family safe during the 2015 Memorial Day weekend. Always remember that if you experience any property damage to Call Paul! We’re available round-the-clock to assist with building destruction caused by fire, water, mold or storms.
-Your friends at Paul Davis