PHILADELPHIA, PA — The American Red Cross Southeastern Pennsylvania Region issued summer safety guidance for Memorial Day weekend, urging residents across the Philadelphia region to take precautions around water, grilling and outdoor activities as travel and recreation activity increases heading into the summer season.
The organization released the recommendations as Memorial Day marks the unofficial start of summer travel and outdoor gatherings across Pennsylvania, the Jersey Shore and the Pocono region.
“Memorial Day is a meaningful time to honor those who have served our country, and it also marks the start of a busy summer season across our region,” Jennifer Graham, chief executive officer of the American Red Cross Southeastern Pennsylvania Region, stated.
The Red Cross warned that drowning incidents can occur rapidly and quietly, noting that an individual can submerge in as little as 20 to 60 seconds without intervention.
The organization encouraged families to swim only in lifeguard-supervised areas, designate a “water watcher” around pools and open water, and ensure both children and adults learn basic swimming and emergency response skills.
The group also advised against entering the water during rescue situations, instead recommending people “reach or throw, don’t go” to avoid becoming victims themselves.
In addition to water safety, the Red Cross issued reminders tied to grilling and outdoor food preparation during the holiday weekend.
Recommendations included separating raw meats from prepared foods, using food thermometers while grilling, supervising barbecue grills at all times and keeping grills away from homes, decks and combustible materials.
The organization also cautioned residents against leaving perishable food exposed to heat for extended periods and advised using coolers with ice or freezer packs during outdoor events.
For camping, hiking and other outdoor recreation, the Red Cross urged residents to carry first aid supplies, stay hydrated and share travel plans with family or friends before heading outdoors.
The organization also warned about increased exposure to mosquitoes and ticks during warmer months and recommended use of insect repellents containing DEET, protective clothing and regular tick inspections after spending time outdoors.
The Red Cross additionally encouraged residents to take CPR and first aid training courses and download the organization’s emergency preparedness mobile applications.
Additional summer safety information is available at https://www.redcross.org/summersafety.
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