Summer in Michigan may be winding down, but with Labor Day on the horizon, we wanted to put together a bang-up list of how to stay safe in any situation you may find yourself in. Summer safety pertains to many different celebration ideas, so let's breeze over these important points to remember!

Food Safety

BBQs and summer go hand in hand — something about cooked food and cool nights feels like a match made in heaven. Before you have friends and family over, brush up on your food safety. Internal temperatures for cooked meats need to reach at least 145 degrees for pork, fish, and beef, and 165 degrees for chicken. Cold foods also need attention — they should not sit out for more than 4 hours and should not rise above 40 degrees. A food thermometer is a simple and inexpensive tool that is worth having on hand every time you fire up the grill.

Water Safety

Michigan has plenty of places to enjoy fresh water, with lakes and rivers dotted across the state. Before entering deeper water, be sure to test your swimming skills — fitness levels can vary year to year. For younger swimmers, keep a flotation device strapped on and an adult nearby at all times. Whenever possible, swim in an area with a lifeguard and never swim alone or at night. Staying hydrated is also part of water safety — heat stroke and heat exhaustion are easily avoidable with proper fluid intake throughout the day.

Tick Safety

With added outdoor activity, Michigan's forests and parks have been seeing more visitors than usual — and during tick season, that can be a dangerous combination. These parasites latch onto humans and animals alike, so be hypervigilant when hiking or walking through tall grass. Wear light-colored clothing, which makes it much easier to spot a tick on your body. After any outdoor adventure, check everyone in your party thoroughly — disrobe and check every inch of skin, including the scalp. Ticks can lead to Lyme disease, fever, and in extreme cases, paralysis.

Fire Safety

Bonfires are a great way to spend a chilly summer evening in Michigan — but are you prepared before starting one? Make sure you have a usable fire extinguisher, and consider having your local fire department check your model to confirm it is in good working order. When building a bonfire, clear the area of potential tinder like dry grass or cardboard. Keep people seated or standing at least 10 feet away from the fire, and make sure all kids and pets are well monitored throughout.

Summer safety doesn't have to be a snooze fest — you can have fun safely and enjoy your favorite activities to the fullest without any fear of bad times to follow. We hope all our readers have a lovely, safe holiday weekend!