Tag: tailgating

Tips for Safe Tailgating

Are you ready for the football season to start? Do you enjoy gathering with friends and family before the game? Tailgating can be a fun and exciting way to enjoy sports and events, but it’s important to stay safe. Here are some tips for safe tailgating.

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  1. Plan Ahead: Know the parking lot rules and regulations for tailgating. Check weather conditions and pack accordingly.
  2. Designated Driver: If you are drinking, make sure someone in your group is responsible for driving.
  3. Food Safety: Keep perishable foods in a cooler with plenty of ice. Use separate plates and utensils for raw and cooked foods.
  4. Grill Safety: Set up grills away from cars and tents. Also have a fire extinguisher or water nearby for emergencies. Make sure the grill is cooled down before leaving. Do not place a hot grill in your vehicle.
  5. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water, especially on hot days, to avoid dehydration.
  6. First Aid Kit: Have a basic first aid kit on hand for minor injuries.
  7. Responsible Drinking: It is essential to monitor alcohol consumption and be aware of your surroundings. Warm days can lead to dehydration, so it’s crucial to be cautious and stay with your group.
  8. Secure Valuables: Keep valuables out of sight in your vehicle, or with someone trustworthy, to avoid theft.
  9. Clean Up: Bring trash bags and dispose of your waste properly. Leave your tailgating spot clean.
  10. Stay Informed: Keep a radio or smartphone handy to stay updated on weather alerts or emergency announcements.

Happy Tailgating! Enjoy!

10 Tailgating Safety Tips

Football season is here! A major part of football is tailgating before the big game. Prior to heading out to your favorite stadium, consider the following tailgating safety tips.

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  1. Food Safety Temperatures: Be careful with all your meats and foods that need to be kept at a cooler temperature. Keep food at safe temperatures by using coolers and ice packs.
  2. Clean & Sanitize: Bring paper towels and cleaners to keep your area clean. Set out hand sanitizer to use before eating.  Practicing proper food handling and hygiene prevents foodborne illnesses.
  3. Get Organized: Maintain a clear and organized tailgating space to avoid tripping hazards. Along with your coolers, consider bringing a tote for your non-perishable items.
  4. Proper Ventilation: Use grills and stoves in well-ventilated areas. Avoid setting up near flammable materials. Being cautious with your grill set-up is essential for the safety of your tailgating area and others around you.
  5. Watch Hot Surfaces: Be mindful of hot surfaces and open flames, especially with kids around. After using your equipment, make certain you properly turn off your grills and stoves. Traveling with a warm grill is dangerous. Allow everything to cool down before packing your tailgating equipment away.
  6. Stay Hydrated: Drink lots of water or Gatorade throughout your tailgating experience. Avoid excessive alcohol consumption. Do not drink and drive.
  7. Pick Up Your Trash: Dispose of trash properly to keep the area clean and reduce the risk of accidents. If the stadium does not provide trash containers, bring your own bags to take your garbage back home. Do not leave the trash for others to pick up.
  8. Obey the Law: Follow local laws and regulations regarding alcohol consumption. Know the rules for consuming alcohol in the stadium and public gatherings. Not following the rules, could result in a hefty fine.
  9. Set Up in the Proper Area: Use designated parking areas and follow traffic rules when entering and exiting the tailgating area. Tailgating is about having fun. But there are rules and regulations to follow.
  10. Be Kind: Be considerate of others celebrating the football game. Yes, have fun! But maintain a friendly and respectful atmosphere.

Tailgating and football are a fun fall pastime. Following safety protocols ensures that you, your family, and your friends enjoy the day without any incidents.

Tips for Safe Tailgating

Today, September 7th is National Tailgating Day. Serving a meal around your vehicle at a sporting event is the primary purpose of tailgating. The fall season means football at every level. Attending a football game is a perfect chance to engage in tailgating. Remember, safety is a priority when tailgating with friends and family. 

  • Know the Rules: Before heading out to your local football field, research the rules and restrictions for tailgating. Check out the team’s website for proper protocol on tailgating. Some items may not be permitted.
  • Pack Cooler Correctly: When packing your cooler, remember to use lots of ice or cooling packs. Uncooked meat and other perishable food items need to be kept cold to avoid illness. Keeping things cold is a must. Do not leave food items out in the hot sun. 
  • Grill Responsibly: Watch your charcoal or gas grill at all times. Follow the directions. Pack the grill after cooling down. Grilling responsibly helps protect you, your friends, family, and others in the area. 
  • Know Your Limits: Tailgating is a fun, fall activity. Just remember staying out in the sun while drinking alcoholic beverages can be a bad mix. Use a highly rated sunscreen, drink plenty of water, and limit your alcoholic drinks to avoid sickness. 
  • Designate a Driver: Ask a member of your tailgating party to be the designated driver for a safe return home. 
  • Take Your Time: Allow yourself extra time to leave the parking lot. Leave early or late to avoid mass exit times. Watch for others in the parking, especially children or people who may have been drinking all day. 

With a few precautions, tailgating can be a fun-filled day at your sports stadium.