(MIAMI, Sept. 4, 2020) – Miami-Dade Fire Rescue (MDFR) would like all residents to have a fun and safe Labor Day weekend. This holiday has traditionally marked the end of summer and although we are still observing some restrictions in Miami-Dade County due to COVID-19, many tourists and locals are flocking to nearby pools and beaches. It is now more important than ever to follow safety guidelines and protocols in order to keep our community safe and healthy. MDFR encourages all residents to consider the following safety tips:
COVID-19:
· To protect yourself and others from COVID-19, always wear a face mask and practice social distancing of at least six feet.
· If you're planning on going to a Miami-Dade County beach or park, no groups of more than 10 people will be permitted.
· All beachgoers must have facial covering available and ready to use at all times.
· Facial coverings must be worn in restrooms and when at concessions. They are not required while in the ocean.
· All boaters must wear facial coverings and practice social distancing rules, both on shore and on the vessel.
DRIVING:
· Always wear your seatbelt and make sure that all passengers do so as well. All infants and small children should be restrained in approved child safety seats.
· Try to do most driving during daylight hours; motorists driving under the influence are usually on the road after 9:00 p.m.
· If your vehicle stalls on the freeway, do your best to pull over on to the shoulder, well out of traffic lanes. Call for help and do not attempt to repair it yourself on the freeway.
· Always designate a safe driver that will not be drinking alcohol.
SWIMMING:
· Never leave children unattended. Drowning incidents in residential swimming pools are significantly higher involving children between the ages of one and four.
· Swim in areas supervised by a lifeguard.
· Read and obey all rules and posted signs.
OUTDOOR COOKING:
· Use the grill at least 10 feet away from the house or any other structures.
· Keep children away from the grill and never leave the grill unattended.
· Never use gasoline or kerosene to light a charcoal fire.
· Do not pour lighter fluid on hot charcoal. This is the leading cause of grill-related burns.
· Never light a grill on the balcony of an apartment; it is illegal and extremely dangerous for all building occupants.
BOATING:
· The best thing anyone can do to stay safe in and around the water is to learn to swim, especially anyone participating in boating activities.
· Alcohol and boating don't mix. Alcohol impairs judgment, balance, and coordination, all of which are necessary for safe boating, especially for the vessel operator.
· Before leaving shore, ensure that the vessel is in good working condition and all safety equipment is on board and operational, including at least one Coast Guard-approved life jacket for every passenger on the boat.
· Prior to any boat excursion, give a responsible person details about where you will be and how long you will be gone. In the event of an emergency, this information could be the key to finding you and bringing help to your location.
HEAT:
· Drink plenty of cool fluids throughout the day, but avoid those that contain caffeine, alcohol or a high sugar content since they actually contribute to dehydration and make a heat-related illness worse.
· Stay indoors in an air-conditioned place and limit you outdoor activities to the early morning or evening hours, avoiding the mid-day sun.
· Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing.
· Check frequently on the elderly, young children and others at higher risk for heat-related illnesses.
· And don’t forget your animals. Keep them in an air-conditioned area if possible and provide plenty of fresh water.
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