Emergency Physicians’ Tips for a Safe Memorial Day Celebration

WASHINGTON, DC--In addition to commemorating members of the military who we have lost, Memorial Day Weekend kicks off the start of summer with family gatherings, cookouts, swimming, and outdoor activities. The American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP) has safety tips for those enjoying time with friends and family.

"Many outdoor activities come with risks," says ACEP President L. Anthony Cirillo, MD, FACEP. "Be proactive with your safety so that your Memorial Day festivities are not cut short by a medical emergency."

Follow these five tips to stay safe during the holiday:

1. Drive safely. The AAA projects 39.1 million people will be on the road this Memorial Day weekend. Always wear a seat belt, minimize distractions, and consider packing an emergency kit for your car.
2. Be cautious around water. Drowning is the number one cause of death for children aged 1-4 and kills more than 4,000 people in the United States each year, according to the CDC. Supervise children at all times, wear lifejackets, and learn CPR in case of an emergency.
3. Handle food carefully. Cookouts can result in foodborne illness, burns, and other injuries if you are not careful. Wash your hands and cooking surfaces, separate raw meats and eggs from other foods, be mindful of allergies, and cook foods to safe internal temperatures. Never leave a grill unattended. Avoid wire-bristle grill brushes, and learn the Heimlich Maneuver in case of choking.
4. Stay cool. The CDC says more than 700 people die from extreme heat every year in the United States. If you are spending time in the sun, remember to wear and reapply sunscreen and drink plenty of water. If you experience any symptoms of heatstroke, such as dizziness, headache, or nausea, get to a cool place immediately.
5. Never drink and operate a vehicle. The National Safety Council reported 39% of all traffic fatalities during Memorial Day weekend in 2023 involved an alcohol-impaired driver. It is illegal to drive any vehicle while impaired--including cars, boats, jet skis, and ATVs. Do not drink and drive.