10 Tips to Enjoy Labor Day Weekend Safely

The end of the summer season is upon us, but your traditional Labor Day weekend plans and outings may have changed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Whether you are staying at home or venturing out, the American Red Cross has some tips to help you enjoy the holiday weekend safely.

WATER SAFETY Follow the guidance of your state and local public health officials. If you choose to take your family to the water, make sure the area is designated for swimming and is supervised by a lifeguard. Once there, maintain social distancing, both in and out of the water, between you and people who don’t live with you. If you don’t think your child can do this, come up with another activity.
 

1. Wear face coverings on land, especially when physical distancing is difficult. Do not wear them in the water as it may be difficult to breathe.
   
2. Don’t share goggles, nose clips, snorkels or other personal items.
   
3. A kiddie or inflatable pool can be a great way to have fun but be sure to provide constant supervision to children in and around it. Drain the water from the pool and flip it over after swim time is over.
   
4. Wear a properly fitted U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket while boating and have young children or inexperienced swimmers wear one around water.
   
5. Prevent unsupervised access to water. Constantly supervise children around water and avoid distractions. In group situations, designate a water watcher whose sole responsibility it is to oversee the activity in the water until the next water watcher takes over.
    

Take our free Water Safety for Parents and Caregivers online course and visit our Water Safety for Kids site for videos, activities and quizzes.

HEAT SAFETY Many areas of the country may experience high temperatures this weekend. Excessive heat can be life-threatening.
 

1. Never leave children or pets alone in vehicles. Temperatures inside a vehicle can reach dangerous levels within 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.
   
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.