The summer season is a terrific time to enjoy bright sunshine and time outdoors with family. If you spend time on picnics or poolside with family, there are several important safety measures to consider!
Swimming and splashing in your backyard pool can help to keep you cool. It can be even more fun to bring family and friends over for a backyard picnic. This is especially true if you are enjoying a special occasion.
These common summer time situations require additional safety precautions. If food is not handled with care, you and your family could be susceptible to foodborne illnesses. Enjoying the pool safely is also important for your visitors of all ages.
Guidelines for Pool-Side Safety
Read more on the Government of Canada website here.
If you are a homeowner hosting regular pool parties in your backyard, you may want to consider taking lifeguard, first aid, or CPR courses. Your children can also receive this same training. These lessons in safety will offer value in all avenues of life. Don’t forget to keep lifesaving equipment, such as a first aid kit, close at hand in the backyard.
Younger children enjoying your pool should have some basic safety guidelines to follow. These guidelines can be posted in a central, visible location for everyone to refer to.
Lastly, it is important to keep the pool area free of obstructions and well-monitored. If everyone enjoys a fun and safe time playing near the pool, ask them to pitch in with tidying the area after the party is over. Cover the pool when you are done so that children cannot fall into the water while unobserved.
Guidelines for Safe Outdoor Eating
Read more on the Government of Canada website here.
Imagine – the barbeque is hot and the family crowding around to enjoy the next tasty treat. Do you know if the food is safe to eat? It is important to wash your hands thoroughly before handling food and utensils.
The timing of food preparation can also be important. Mayonnaise-based foods should be cooled immediately after preparation. Letting food sit out for more than one hour is an invitation for bacteria! Foods should be kept at 4 degrees Celsius or cooler. You can use insulated coolers with ice or frozen gel packs to ensure that everything stays cool if it will be out for longer.
Do not give into the temptation to partially-cook foods to be finished later. Cooking food thoroughly right away will prevent toxins from forming on the food. Covering food that has recently been prepared will also help to keep away insects carrying bacteria.
These tips and guidelines will help you to ensure a safe and happy backyard space for visiting friends and family. Cheers to summer!
