Summer is a time of joy and celebration, especially in Nashville, TN, where warm weather brings people together for cookouts and gatherings. For all the fun to be had, some dangers come from cookouts, HVAC systems working in overdraft to combat the heat, and so much more! Because of this, it is important that while dipping your toe into all the fun and enjoyment, you also stay mindful of potential hazards and safety concerns. The team at Adroit Restoration doesn’t just serve the Nashville area; they also live in and around Nashville and pride themselves on keeping the community safe and beautiful! As a leading restoration company serving the Nashville area, we believe that promoting summer safety and awareness is essential for the well-being of our community.
Proper Disposal of Food and Waste
After a summer cookout, it’s common to have leftover food and disposable plates, cups, and utensils scattered around. Proper food waste disposal is crucial to prevent bugs and critters from trying to join the after-party. The attraction of pests and bacteria could pose health risks and absolutely pose health risks. Make sure to secure all trash bags tightly and place them in designated bins to minimize the chances of animals getting into the waste.
Grill and Fire Safety
Cookouts often involve grilling, which we also love and know to be one of the greatest ways to enjoy a summer get-together. This can also be dangerous if not handled with care. Before cleaning the grill, ensure it has completely cooled down. Use a grill brush to remove any stuck-on food residue, and remember to empty and clean the grease trap properly. Also, store the grill and propane tanks in a safe, ventilated area away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
The only other tip we have for grilling is to make sure the grill master has a great marinade and some amazing sauce to add to the mix!
Pool Safety
Bring on the heat of the grill, but pair it will a pool party to cool off the party! Pool safety isn’t just an issue during the summer, but we know that sometimes a pool party can get busy and it may be a bit easier to miss a normal pool safety tip that usually seems like and natural instinct. After the guests have left and the cleanup is your next step, make sure to secure the pool area to prevent unauthorized access, especially if children are present. Remove any toys or items from the pool to avoid attracting curious children or pets, which could lead to accidents.
Tackling Foodborne Illnesses
With the warm weather, food can spoil quickly, no one wants to host a party where everyone leaves feeling sick, so it is important to plan how to keep foodborne illnesses from crashing your summer bash! When serving food outdoors, ensure it remains covered until it is time for everyone to dig in! Discard perishable foods left out for over two hours (or one hour if the temperature is above 90°F). Always store leftover food in sealed containers and refrigerate those yummy leftovers as soon as possible!
Dealing with Broken Glass
Accidents can happen during gatherings, and broken glass happens pretty often. It is very important to clean up broken glass immediately to prevent a trip to the ER, or at the very least, a frantic search for band-aids! Make sure that you always clean up broken glass immediately to prevent injuries to guests, children, or pets. Use heavy-duty gloves and a broom and dustpan to collect all the shards carefully. Dispose of the broken glass in a puncture-resistant container, such as a plastic jar with a secure lid. Disposal is important because you don’t want the person talking out the trash later getting cut with glass which proves it is stronger than a regular plastic garbage bag!
Sun Protection and Hydration
Summer heat in Nashville can be intense, so it’s essential to prioritize sun protection and hydration during gatherings. Encourage guests to apply sunscreen, wear hats, and seek shade when needed. Offer plenty of water and non-alcoholic beverages to help guests stay hydrated.
Adroit Restoration is dedicated to serving the Nashville, TN, area, we believe that summer safety awareness is the first step to having the perfect summer gathering. By following these tips for safe cleanup after summer cookouts and gatherings, we hope everyone has a wonderful time while reducing the risk of having your summer bash turned into a summer bashing. Remember, preparation and caution are key to enjoying a safe and happy summer season with family and friends. If you ever encounter any bio-hazardous situations beyond your capabilities, don’t hesitate to contact Adroit Restoration to help with any fire or water damage. Stay safe, and have a fantastic summer!