LABOR DAY WEEKEND SAFETY TIPS

Labor Day weekend is traditionally the end of the summer season and the Red Cross in New Mexico urges families and individuals taking advantage of one last weekend of summer fun to have a safe and healthy weekend.  Following are some safety tips related to this end-of-summer holiday:

     If spending this weekend in water-based activities, remember basic water safety rules.  Never swim alone.  Always wear a life jacket or personal floatation device when in any watercraft – check to make sure that the device is US Coast Guard approved (there will be a label on the jacket or device indicating that it is of approved design).  Alcohol and water activities don’t mix.  Closely supervise all children when they are engaged in activities in or near the water; know how to help that child in the event there is an emergency. Take a course in first aid and CPR at your local Red Cross, and inquire about information or courses in Community Water Safety.

     Going hiking, biking or camping this weekend?  Remember to use sun block if you will be outdoors.  If riding your bicycle on a roadway with other vehicle traffic, use caution, and follow the rules of the road.  Always wear an approved bicycle helmet when riding a bicycle; motorcycle and ATV riders should always wear approved helmets as well.  If you are camping, please remember that the fire danger is very high this year – if you are in an area that allows campfires, never leave your fire unattended, and make sure that it is out completely before leaving your campsite.  Follow all posted regulations for the area in which you are camping.  Take a course in first aid and CPR at your local Red Cross, and inquire about additional safety information on biking, hiking or camping.

     Taking a road trip and staying at a hotel this weekend?  Make sure that there is a fully stocked first aid kit in your vehicle before you depart, and know how to use the contents.  Check your vehicle for safety, and include checks of tire pressure and brake systems.  Plan your route ahead of time, and know how to call local fire, EMS or police in the area you are traveling through and to – in some areas it is a seven-digit number instead of 911.  Always wear seatbelts; ensure that children are securely fastened into child restraint seats or seatbelts.  Alcohol and driving do not mix.  Take a supply of water with you – for drinking and in the event your vehicle’s radiator gets thirsty.  Follow the rules of the road, be a courteous driver, and be aware that speed limits are extremely varied in our beautiful state.  Remember that travel on an unpaved road is very different from a paved roadway, and requires slower speeds and a watchful eye for bumps, potholes, water bars and cattle guards.  When you arrive at your destination, check to make sure that your hotel room has a working smoke detector, and that fire exit and stairway information is posted somewhere in your room.  Take a few moments to look for and locate the fire exits that are closest to your room; ensure that all members of your family or group know them as well.  In the event of a fire, follow the safety and evacuation directions provided by the hotel.  Make sure that you know how to reach local fire, EMS or police in the community where you are staying.  Call your local Red Cross office to register to take a course in first aid and CPR, and to inquire about additional sources of information on road and traffic safety.

We hope you enjoy this last weekend of summer - be prepared, stay safe.