Memorial Day Safety

As Memorial Day approaches, many of us look forward to a relaxing weekend filled with family gatherings, outdoor grilling, and enjoying the (hopefully) beautiful Pacific Northwest weather. Before the celebrations begin, let’s pause and remember to stay safe and protect our loved ones.

First and foremost, let’s honor the true purpose of Memorial Day. Originally called Decoration Day, this holiday pays tribute to the courageous men and women who have given their lives in defense of our freedom and democracy. As we enjoy barbecues, beaches, and festivities, take a meaningful moment to reflect on their bravery, dedication, and sacrifice for the United States of America.

Memorial Day also signifies the unofficial start of summer, bringing warmer weather and increased outdoor activities. While we encourage everyone to relax and enjoy this well-earned break, safety must remain a priority. Unfortunately, this holiday weekend often sees a rise in accidents, including traffic incidents, pedestrian and cycling accidents, falls, drownings, and burn injuries. A recent study by the National Safety Council states that Memorial Day weekend is one of the most dangerous holidays, with more than 40,900 injuries and approximately 380 fatalities every year.

Be careful with the lighter fluid & campfires, wear a life vest, put on sunscreen, drink plenty of water, be careful on the ladder, don’t drink and drive . . . you know what to do. Take an extra minute and ensure that everything you and your family are doing is being done safely. Please don’t become a statistic of tragedies for this holiday weekend.

Remember This!

Enjoy the days off—you’ve earned it. But prioritize safety to truly make the most of the weekend. We look forward to seeing everyone back safe, healthy, and ready to go on Tuesday morning.

Stay safe, have fun, and honor our heroes this Memorial Day!