Summer! Time for play … and maybe some work, too

Sharing a meal from the grill is a great way to kick off the summer this holiday weekend.

Memorial Day traditionally marks the beginning of summer: time to grill on the patio, take the boat out, work in the garden or make a dent on that list of home improvement projects. Whatever your chosen activity, here are some safety and consumer tips from our blog.

GRILLING AND OUTDOOR DINING

Since the beginning of the pandemic, people are spending more time on their porches, patios, decks and other outdoor living spaces. Grilling at home is an enjoyable way to share a meal and avoid the higher costs of eating out. Unfortunately, each summer season also brings numerous home fires and burn injuries associated with outdoor grilling activities.

Fire up the grill, but follow simple safety tips

BOATING AND WATERCRAFT

Based on reported sales figures, boating has been lifted by the tide of the pandemic. But even seasoned sailors can benefit from a refresher on maritime safety. Most important: wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket. In 2020, the Coast Guard reported 75% of boating deaths were caused by drowning, and a shocking 86% of those victims were not wearing life jackets.

A refresher on water sport and boating safety

GARDENING AND YARD WORK

While sticking closer to home, people have had the urge to beautify their own little corner of the world. And boy, what a widespread urge it has been judging by the weekend crowds at the neighborhood garden center. It can be relaxing to work outdoors with plants and the earth, but you don’t want to overdo. Read these tips on how to protect yourself from the sun, insects and the aches and pains of repetitive injury.

Gardening tips to protect your green thumb…and more

HOME MAINTENANCE AND DIY PROJECTS

With extra hours of sunlight in the summer, it’s tempting to knock out some of the items on the home repair list. You might want to take the opportunity to maintain your hardscape after any damage from winter’s freezing and heaving. If your home project requires power tools, brush up on their safe use and care, and remember to wear goggles, hearing protection or other personal protection gear. Woodchippers, especially, can be hazardous and deserve special attention. And when you’re done with your project, dispose of any paint or chemicals in a safe, environmentally friendly way.

Maintain your hardscape cobblestone and paver walkways

7 tips for using power tools safely at home

Woodchippers efficient, but demand extra caution

Hazardous waste: Proper disposal matters

This loss control information is advisory only. The authors assume no responsibility for management or control of loss control activities. Not all exposures are identified in this article. Contact your local, independent insurance agent for coverage advice and policy service.