Labor Day 2020
The end of the summer season is finally here, but traditional Labor Day weekend plans have changed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Whether you are staying at home or venturing out, here are some tips to help you enjoy the holiday weekend safely!
HOW TO STAY SAFE AND CELEBRATE
Instead of a weekend getaway, explore your own city- Try being a pandemic-friendly tourist in your very own city. Explore your town’s parks, natural attractions, and outdoor spaces. Those who want to take a last-minute trip, try to find something close to home that you can reach by car to avoid crowding in major transportation hubs.
Instead of cramming at a table with friends, pack a socially distant picnic- You can still safely hang out with your friends outside, depending on how you do it. Instead of cramming together and sitting face-to-face at a picnic table, try a socially distant picnic.
Outdoors is much safer than indoors- The risk of transmitting COVID-19 is higher indoors, especially in confined spaces where people may not be wearing face coverings or keeping their distance from others. If you attend a social gathering, avoid being inside. The host should be the only one in the kitchen. Having guests in the kitchen increases the risk spreading the virus. If you choose to socialize, do it outdoors. Even if you are outside, you should remain 6 feet apart and wear face coverings if you are around people outside of your household.
WATER SAFETY
Follow the guidance of your state and local public health officials. If you and your family decide to take a trip to the water, make sure the area is designated for swimming and a lifeguard is present. Maintain social distancing, both in and out of the water, as well as between you and people outside your household.
1. Wear face coverings on land, especially when physical distancing is difficult. Do not wear them in the water as it makes it hard to breathe.
2. Don’t share personal swimming supplies such as, goggles, nose clips, snorkels or other items.
3. A kiddie or inflatable pool can be a great alternative way to have fun but, be sure to provide constant supervision.
4. Don’t forget to drain the water from a kiddie or inflatable pool and flip it over after swim time is over.
5. Wear a properly fitted, approved life jacket while boating and have young children or inexperienced swimmers wear one around water.
6. Prevent unsupervised access to water by constantly supervising children around water and avoid distractions. In group scenarios, designate someone whose responsibility is to oversee the activity in the water.
Take the American Red Cross Water Safety for Parents and Caregivers online course
HEAT SAFETY
Many areas of the country are going to experience extremely high temperatures this weekend. Excessive heat can be fetal and life-threatening.
1. Never leave children or pets alone in vehicles. Temperatures inside a vehicle can reach dangerous levels within a couple minutes.
2. Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day even if you do not feel thirsty.
3. Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing. Avoid dark colors because they absorb the sun’s rays (especially black).
4. Check on your pets and animals frequently to ensure they are not suffering stress from the heat.
5. Avoid strenuous exercise and activities during the hottest part of the day.
Download the free American red Cross First Aid App for instant access on how to treat heat emergencies
https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/mobile-apps.html