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OUTDOOR FUN -SAFELY
by Arleen M. Kaptur

There are so many ways to decorate your outdoor living area. Some people have swimming pools, others have hot-tubs. There are gazebos, birdbaths, rock gardens, ponds, flower gardens, etc.

Everything in your outdoor living area should be weather-resistant and simple to maintain. If wind, rain, or the outdoor elements can damage or pit a decorative touch, find something similar to replace it. Also, make sure that all decorative touches are safe. Picnic tables or benches should be sanded so that tiny slivers don’t harm or hurt. Webbing on chairs or loungers should be repaired and replaced. Cords should not be raveled and everything should be in easy sight. You would not appreciate tripping over an ornament hidden under brush or tucked around a corner to grab toe or heel. Just a few simple precautions and you have a fun, safe outdoor getaway.

Using oilcloth or heavy plastic sheeting on picnic tables that is easy to clean, and tacked down will keep everything you serve safe and sound. Plastic pitchers, cups, and plates are preferable to glass ones, as those tiny slivers from broken glass are almost impossible to find in grass or sand. A first-aid kit that is readily available and handy is of prime importance. From scratches, scrapes, bug bites, or burns, having a remedy close at hand eases the pain and soothes the fear. Cords stretched across grassy areas are a hazard for anyone running through or walking through as they admire your flowers and garden. Sunscreen and insect repellant are also a must. They should be available to family and friends who visit.

Food should be kept cold if they are cold items and hot if they are intended to be hot. Try not to keep food out longer than one hour or provide ice bowls to place the food in or sterno or hot trays for the hot food. Keep foods covered with plastic lids or foil. Also use serving utensils to prevent everyone from having to use their own eating utensils. Cans of beverages, or juice boxes are much preferred over glass bottles or glass cups. Additional ice for beverages or just to refresh and revive are a very thoughtful accent. Grills or barbecues should be away from anything flammable or that flutters in the wind. Long sleeves for the “griller” should be avoided as well as clothing that could catch on fire. An extinguisher nearby is a must, as well as a pail of water for immediate use, but not on a grease fire. Refuse containers should be provided well away from the main activity so those darn unwanted insect guests are kept away. Using plastic garbage bags, collection used plates and cups immediately, and securing the bags with ties will prevent a lot of bits and bumps.

Also, remember wet feet running onto an indoor floor can slip and fall. Keep additional towels at entrances and secure rugs for safety.
A dampened paper towel in a little plastic sandwich bag next to each plate provides a welcome way to clean sticky fingers and faces. This also keeps insect pests from landing on small children and biting. Have all chemicals safety put away so inquisitive children or pets are not injured. A portable phone close by is a blessing if an emergency should occur. Also having the vital phone numbers such as hospital, fire, police, etc. taped or placed on patio or porch may give the extra time needed to avoid a catastrophe. In case of rain or thunderstorm, preplan a place for all to gather and continue having fun. If you have a pool, keep rules simple but mandatory. No rough housing in the water, and small children should never be left alone. An adult should always be present. Slip resistant access is vital as well as floatation devices if boating or other water activity includes anyone going out into open water. Your thoughtfulness will be very much appreciated and everyone will relax and have fun knowing that all the bases for their personal safety are covered as much as possible.

It doesn’t take a lot of time to prepare a safe environment for all your outdoor fun. Just a few things to insure that everyone has a great time and all go home with great memories.
ENJOY!
©Arleen M. Kaptur 2002 June

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