MACON, Ga. — As Labor Day weekend approaches, many of us are looking forward to celebrating the unofficial end of summer. Whether you're firing up the grill for a backyard barbecue, relaxing by the pool or beach, or exploring the great outdoors, it's important to keep safety top of mind.

“Labor Day is a great way to celebrate the end of summer with family and friends,” said Adelaide Kirk, Regional Disaster Officer for the American Red Cross of Georgia. “Emergencies can happen in an instant, so it’s important to make a plan and stay informed before the holiday weekend.”

No matter how you choose to spend the holiday weekend, the American Red Cross encourages you to follow these simple tips to help ensure a safe, fun, and memorable celebration:

ENJOY YOUR COOKOUT Follow these tips to prevent illness and keep everyone safe:

1. Wash your hands, utensils and workstation before preparing the food.
2. Separate uncooked meats, poultry and seafood from ready-to-eat foods like salads, fruits, vegetables, cheeses and desserts. Use separate plates and utensils to prevent cross-contamination.
3. Don’t leave food out in the hot sun. Keep perishable foods in a cooler with plenty of ice or freezer gel packs. 
4. Bring hand sanitizer if your picnic site doesn’t have hand-washing facilities.
5. If you are going to cook on the grill, make sure everyone, including pets, stays away. Keep the grill out in the open, away from the house, deck, tree branches or anything that could catch fire. Use long-handled tools designed specifically for grilling to help keep the chef safe.

WATER FUN Drowning can happen in as little as 20 to 60 seconds. 

1. Designate a “water watcher” whose sole responsibility is to keep a close eye and constant attention on everyone in and around the water until the next water watcher takes over.
2. Watch the weather and get out of the water at the first sign of lightning or rumble of thunder. Stay indoors and away from water for 30 minutes after the last lightning flashes or thunder roars.
3. Don’t just pack your life jacket, wear it it — always on a boat and if you are in a situation beyond your skill level.
4. Reach or throw, don't go! In the event of an emergency, reach or throw an object to the person in trouble and tell them to grab on to it. Don’t go in! You could become a victim yourself.
5. If you’re headed to the shore, only swim at beaches with lifeguards, within the designated swimming area. Obey all instructions and orders from lifeguards and ask them about local conditions.

TAKE A HIKE If a walk in nature is what you have planned, here are some safety steps to consider:

1. Know the level of ability of your group and the environment around you. Plan accordingly.
2. Pack a first aid kit to handle insect stings, sprains, cuts and bruises and other injuries that could happen.
3. 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 someone needs help.
4. Share your locations with a family member, neighbor or friend.
5. Bring nutritious food items and water, light-weight clothing to layer and supplies for any pets.

Whatever your Labor Day plans involve, visit here for information on lots of summer activities and how to enjoy them safely.

About the American Red Cross:

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.