Stay Cool and BBQ Safely This Summer

Memorial Day Weekend is upon us, which means summer is right around the corner. Be prepared for the heat and humidity with these Stay Cool Tips from the Philadelphia Department of Public Health:

• Stay out of the sun. When in the sun, wear sunscreen (at least SPF 15).
• Avoid working or playing in the hot sun or other hot areas between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
• To prevent sunburn, wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothes that cover as much skin as possible.
• Use drapes, shades, louvers or awnings in your home. (Outdoor awnings or louvers can reduce the heat that enters the home by up to 80 percent.)
• Wear a wide-brimmed hat or visor, or use an umbrella for shade.
• Slow down. Rest in the shade or a cool place every chance you get.
• Drink plenty of water. Avoid alcohol and caffeine.
• Maintain a normal diet.
• Use air conditioners and fans. If you use a fan, make sure your windows are open to release trapped hot air.
• Visit a friend with air conditioning or go someplace cool like a mall, library, or senior center.
• Take a cool shower or bath.
• Read your medication labels. Some medications can cause an adverse reaction in hot weather. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you need more information.
• Never leave children, pets, or those who require special care in a parked car during periods of intense summer heat. 

For more information on how to beat the heat this summer, visit the Excessive Heat page.

Many Memorial Day Weekend celebrations include a tasty barbecue, so be sure to stay safe around the grill. Barbecue grills are regulated by the Philadelphia Fire Code and the Philadelphia Fire Department recommends the following precautions:

• Propane and charcoal grills must only be used outdoors. If used indoors, or in any enclosed spaces such as tents, they pose a fire hazard and a risk of exposing occupants to deadly carbon monoxide.
• Place the grill a safe distance from lawn games, play areas, and foot traffic. Grills should be at least 10 feet away from siding, deck railing, and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.
• BBQ grills are not allowed on apartment building balconies or decks.
• BBQ grills are allowed on porches and decks of one and two family houses.
• Never store spare propane cylinders under or near a grill or inside the home.
• Do not transport propane cylinders in the trunk of a passenger vehicle.
• Keep matches, lighters, and starter fluid out of the reach of children in a locked drawer or cabinet.
• Children should never be allowed to start outdoor cooking equipment.
• Keep children and pets away from the grill area.
• Do not wear loose fitting clothing while cooking.
• Use long BBQ mitts and long-handled grilling tools to protect the chef from heat and flames.
• Always turn off valves when not in use.
• Periodically remove grease or fat buildup in trays below the grill so it cannot be ignited by a hot grill.
• To guard against the possibility of damage or explosion, burners, tubing and piping should be clean and free from insects, dust and debris.
• When purchasing a grill, select one that bears the approval mark of an independent testing laboratory.