As the holiday celebrations get underway, experts encourage people to stay mindful of safety.
From cookouts and boating events to getting to a destination, law enforcement and safety organizations are offering tips to keep you, your family, and friends safe over the Memorial Day weekend.
AAA projects 45.1 million people will travel at least 50 miles from home over the Memorial Day holiday period from May 22 to May 26, an increase of 1.4 million travelers compared to last year and setting a new Memorial Day weekend record.
Among those travelers, 39.4 million people will get to their destinations by car. That’s an additional one million travelers compared to last year.
With added people on the roads, the American Red Cross advises drivers to be well-rested and alert before hitting the road, observe speed limits, and follow the rules of the road.
Also:
◦The driver and passengers should wear seatbelts.
◦The South Carolina Highway Patrol recommends anyone who plans to consume alcohol arrange for a designated driver or call a rideshare service.
◦Give full attention to the road avoiding distractions such as cell phones, use caution in work zones, and drive defensively.
◦In case of long travel, make sure vehicles are properly equipped. Clean vehicle lights and windows to help you see, and make sure your tires and car oil are in good condition.
South Carolina Highway Patrol Master Trooper Mitch Ridgeway pointed out extra troopers will be on the interstates through the holiday weekend.
The National Fire Protection Association suggested five tips on ways to keep your grilling festivities safe during Memorial Day weekend.
◦Never leave your grill unattended.
◦Only use charcoal starter fluid when lighting a charcoal grill.
◦Never add charcoal fluid or any other flammable liquids to the fire. When grilling is finished, let the coals cool completely before disposing in a metal container.
◦Place the grill well away from the home, deck railings, and out from under leaves and overhanging branches.
∙Keep your grill clean by removing grease or fat buildup from the grills and in trays below.
The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources will conduct courtesy boat inspections 10 a.m., May 24 at Twin Lakes Landing on Lake Hartwell.
The inspections will be repeated at 10 a.m. on Memorial Day at the South Cove Landing of Lake Keowee in Pickens County.
The Department of Natural Resources also recommends:
◦Boat occupants check all the safety procedures before heading out on the water. Some of those safety needs include a fire extinguisher, life jackets that properly fit. and multiple forms of communication.
◦Be alert while operating the boat and drive slowly around buoys
◦Boat operators should not drink alcohol while driving the boat.
Report boating violations such as reckless operation or an intoxicated boat operator, at the 24-hour hotline at 1-800-922-5431 or dial #DNR on a cellular phone.
