As Memorial Day Weekend kicks off the summer season, it’s the perfect time to gather with friends and family, but also a time to stay alert and stay safe. The DC Fire and EMS reports that grilling accidents alone cause nearly 10,000 fires each year, leading to millions in property damage and tragic loss of life.

To keep your cookout safe, never leave the grill unattended, avoid using excessive lighter fluid, and keep all grills at least 10 feet from your home. Balcony grilling? Not in a major fire hazard, especially in apartment buildings.

Water safety is equally critical. The U.S. averages over 4,000 drowning deaths annually, with toddlers at the highest risk. If children are near water, put your phone down and give them your full attention. Install barriers around pools and always have floatation devices nearby. Better yet, make CPR training a family priority it can save lives when seconds matter.

Safety doesn’t take a holiday. As you fire up the grill or lounge by the pool, take a moment to prepare, plan, and prevent the preventable. Let’s make this Memorial Day Weekend fun, safe, and unforgettable for all the right reasons.