Skip to Content

Houston Fire Department Recommends Safety Tips for Summer Fun and Weekend Family Activities

By Francis Page, Jr.

Click here for updates on this story

    May 29, 2024 (Houston Style Magazine) — Barbecue Grill Safety Tips

Location: Always operate portable barbecue pits, charcoal grills, and other open-flame cooking devices outdoors, away from combustible balconies and at least 10 feet from combustible walls, roofs, or other materials. Ignition: Use a charcoal lighter instead of gasoline when igniting the barbecue charcoal. Gasoline can cause violent flashes, leading to serious injuries. Keep a fire extinguisher or a charged garden hose nearby while grilling and monitor the pit frequently. Disposal: Place hot ash and coals from barbecue pits and charcoal burners in a non-combustible container until completely cooled or thoroughly saturated with water before disposal. Pool and Water Safety

Supervision: Active, focused adult supervision is the key to preventing water-related tragedies involving children. Most child drownings occur in backyard pools or those of relatives. Never leave a child alone near water. Swimming Lessons: Enroll children over the age of three in swimming lessons taught by qualified instructors. However, remember that swimming lessons do not make a child “drown-proof.” Supervision is irreplaceable. Flotation Devices: Use approved flotation devices and remember they are not substitutes for supervision. Apartment Pools: If you live in an apartment with a pool, inspect the fence and gate. Report any defects, such as gates that do not lock, to the apartment management immediately. Emergency Preparedness: Always have a cell phone at the pool for emergencies. Keep a first aid kit and emergency contacts handy. Safety Measures: Teach children to swim with a buddy, avoid diving into unknown waters, and refrain from pushing or jumping on others in or around water. Adhere to all rules and posted signs. Weather Awareness: Pay attention to local weather conditions. Exit the pool if lightning or thunder is nearby and wait until the storm has passed. Teach Children These Safety Tips

Always swim with a buddy. Avoid diving into unknown bodies of water; jump in feet first to prevent head injuries. Do not push or jump on others in or around water. Swim only in supervised areas. Obey all pool rules and posted signs.

HFD also recommends that parents and guardians learn CPR. In the event of a drowning, performing CPR quickly and correctly can save a life. For more information on local CPR classes, contact the American Red Cross, local hospitals, or medical schools.

Additional safety tips can be found on the HFD website at houstonfire.org.

Please note: This content carries a strict local market embargo. If you share the same market as the contributor of this article, you may not use it on any platform.

Article Topic Follows: CNN - Regional

Jump to comments ↓

CNN Newsource

BE PART OF THE CONVERSATION

KION 46 is committed to providing a forum for civil and constructive conversation.

Please keep your comments respectful and relevant. You can review our Community Guidelines by clicking here

If you would like to share a story idea, please submit it here.

Skip to content