Safe Kids Mid-South, led by Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital, wishes you a safe and happy Memorial Day weekend. No matter your plans, Safe Kids has some practical tips that will help your family stay safe over the holiday.

Pool Party:

If you are planning a pool party over the holiday weekend, make sure to always have an adult serve as a “water watcher,” and follow these tips.

• Don’t rely on inflatable swimming toys such as “water wings” and noodles. If your child can’t swim, stay within an arm’s reach.
• Keep rescue equipment, a phone and emergency numbers by the pool.

Barbecue:

Before you put the burgers on the grill, follow a few simple tips to avoid grilling injuries.

• Grills should only be used outdoors and at least 10 feet away from a house or any building. Do not use the grill in a garage, breezeway, carport, porch or under a surface that can catch fire.
• The grill should be placed well away from deck railings and out from under eaves and over-hanging branches.
• Keep children and pets away from the grill area by declaring a three-foot "kid-free zone" around the grill.
• Grills should be kept clean by removing grease or fat buildup from the grill itself and in the trays below the grill.
• Never leave a grill unattended.
• Keep lighted cigarettes, matches or open flames away from the grill.

Outside Play:

If your kids are playing outside with friends, siblings or other family, remind them to be careful.

• Cross streets safely. Cross at a corner, using traffic signals and crosswalks. Try to make eye contact with drivers before crossing in front of them. Do not assume that because you can see the driver, the driver can see you.
• If kids play on or near a playground, remove hood and neck drawstrings from their outerwear. Never allow children to wear helmets, necklaces, purses, scarves or clothing with drawstrings while on playgrounds.
• Children should always wear sport-specific, properly fitting safety gear when participating in sports.

Make it a safe holiday!  Injuries are often preventable, and adult supervision is the key.