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Kick Back and Enjoy Summer Parties Safely
thinksem-dev • June 10, 2014
While we all want to kick back this summer and enjoy the weather, we do have to be careful every time we entertain in our backyards or even when we just cook on the grill for our families.
Having a party at your home opens you up to a host of liabilities and potential problems. Besides causing injury and property damage, just one serious incident can cause you to have to make a homeowners insurance claim and even risk cancellation of your policy.
Here are some ways that you can protect yourself and your guest:
- Do you have a pool? If you do, make sure that any guests that you allow into your pool are capable swimmers. In addition, a responsible and capable adult should monitor activity in the pool at ALL times. Inexperienced swimmers should be accompanied by an adult in the water. And above all, no one should ever swim in your pool alone.
- Do you have a fire pit? Make sure it is installed or used at least 25 feet away from structures, overhangs, or flammable materials. In addition, it should be placed somewhere that is level, sturdy and non-flammable. Always have a fire extinguisher or water source nearby.
- Do you have a play set? Be sure that it is placed on level ground and that you have soft material underneath to provide a soft landing place. Bolts may become rusty and the set may be damaged over the winter, so be sure that you check it and perform any repairs or maintenance before allowing children to play on it. Children should always be supervised.
- Do you have a trampoline? These fun but dangerous contraptions can lead to some serious problems. Limit the number of people allowed on your trampoline at one time, and always supervise children. Prepare a set of rules for guests and expect that they always be followed. Be sure to install safety nets and other safety accessories to reduce the risk for injury.
And finally, the grill. Follow these grilling safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association:
- Only use propane and charcoal grills outdoors.
- Place grills away from the home, deck railings, eaves and overhanging branches.
- Keep children and pets away from your grill at all times.
- Keep your grill clean; remove grease and fat buildup regularly.
- Never leave your grill unattended.
- Only use charcoal starter fluid for a charcoal grill; never add charcoal fluid or any other flammable liquids on an open flame.
- Keep charcoal fluid out of the reach of children and away from heat sources.
- Let coals cool completely before disposing them in a metal container.
In addition:
- When grilling, always wear an apron and an oven mitt that fits up over your forearm.
- Never use a propane grill on a balcony, terrace, roof or enclosed area.
- Keep a fire extinguisher or source of water nearby.
- Know how to cut the fuel supply, extinguish a fire and call the fire department.
- Read the owner’s manual for your grill and follow all of the safety restrictions.
- Avoid breathing in too much smoke from your grill, and keep children and pets from breathing it too.
- Regularly inspect your grill for fuel leaks or obstructions. If you experience a problem, immediately turn off your control valves and the fuel tank, and disconnect everything. And assume everything you touch is hot!
- Don’t drink and grill! You need a clear head to stay safe (and keep the food delicious).
What safety concerns do you have for your outdoor patio parties this summer? Have you ever had a grilling accident? What safety precautions do you take?
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