Stay Safe This Memorial Day Weekend

Memorial Day weekend marks the beginning of summer and is all about the beach, getting together with family, swimming and grilling.

But the Prince George's County Fire Department wants you to remember how to stay safe this weekend, because far too many times the situation can turn into tragedy with accidental fires and injuries.

“Safety should never be overlooked," Prince George’s County Acting Fire Chief Marc S. Bashoor stated. "I urge everyone to utilize basic steps to keep everyone safe.  Remember, safety first and everyone goes home.”

So here are few ways you, your family and friends can stay safe.

When it comes to grilling in Prince George's County grills must be at least 30 feet away from any multi-family apartment buildings. Grills are also illegal to use on balconies of apartments or condominium apartments. Other tips include:

• Don't use a grill indoors including garages, overhangs and canopies.
• When using a grill at your single family home, homeowners should use a 10-foot perimeter from anything combustible, including your house.
• Do not allow children and pets to play near a grill.
• Only use approved ignition fluids – don't use gasoline to ignite a grill.
• Keep a fire extinguisher, garden hose or bucket of sand nearby to douse a grill fire.
• Inspect your grill before you ignite to ensure everything is in working order.

Whether playing on a slip n' slide, in a community pool or in the ocean, water safety is important for both children and adults alike.

Knowing how to swim is key, if you're in a pool or the ocean. If you don't know how to swim, only go to guarded pools and beaches.

• Someone in the group should know how to perform CPR on children and adults - at any guarded pool or beach this would be the lifeguard.
• Always watch your children and never leave them unattended.
• Keep children away from pool drains, pipes and other openings.
• Have a phone close by at all times.
• If a child is missing, check the pool first.

If you don't already know how to swim, Prince George's County offers swimming classes, so that eventually you can join in on the fun.