Football and Tailgating Season Safety Tips For Central Florida

The highly anticipated return of football season is finally here! At the Law Firm of Michael T. Gibson, we want you to stay safe while cheering your favorite team to victory this year. Many of us begin the pre-game festivities by tailgating with family, friends and fellow fans. However, when crowds and large amounts of alcohol are involved, the likelihood of injuries and accidents always increases. Don’t be put on the injured list this tailgate season speak with a personal injury attorney to review your best options for recovery.

10 Tips To Stay Safe This Tailgate Season

1. Stay Sanitary
   Tailgating often involves the grilling of various foods including burgers, chicken and other meats. Cross-contamination and not properly cleaning items can be hazardous. Thoroughly wash your hands, utensils, cutting boards and other surfaces where raw meat has been. Use disposable paper products to minimize spreading germs.
2. Fully Cook Foods
   To ensure everyone’s health and safety, make sure you follow the guidelines for thoroughly cooking foods. Different meats have different cooking guidelines for safe consumption. Ground meats should reach an internal temperature of at least 160°F, steaks at least 145°F, pork chops at least 160°F, and chicken should reach at least 180°F.
3. When in Doubt, Throw it Out
   Certain foods parish quickly and if you come across a questionable item, it is best to err on the side of caution. Spoiled foods can cause food poisoning. Discard perishable foods that have been left out for more than one hour in hot temperatures and more than two hours in cooler temperatures.
4. Be Prepared in Case of a Fire
   With grilling comes the risk of a fire. Dangerous fires can occur on or nearby grills if not properly maintained. Be sure to keep a fire extinguisher and a bucket of water nearby in case of a fire.
5. Have a First Aid Kit on Hand
   Tailgating is a busy event that often includes grilling over flames, cutting foods with a knife, and transporting heavy coolers or items. Any one of these acts could result in unexpected injuries. Always pack a first aid kit as a precaution.
6. Stay Protected from the Sun
   Prolonged sun exposure can cause overheating, dehydration and heat stroke- especially in Florida. Protect yourself from the harmful rays by wearing plenty of sunscreen. Also, consider a tent or canopy for additional protection from the sun.
7. Keep Yourself Hydrated
   Common dehydration symptoms include headache, dizziness, fatigue, and excessive thirst. Drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration, even in small amounts throughout the day. Drinks with high amounts of sugar and alcohol can contribute to dehydration.
8. Stay Together
   Socializing is a major part of the tailgating experience. For your safety, utilize a buddy system and notify friends if you have to step away. With all of the excitement, tailgating parties can become rowdy and crowded. Safety is best in numbers.
9. Have a Designated Driver
   Alcohol is another common component at tailgating parties; therefore, a designated driver is a must. Before beginning the pre-game festivities, make sure your designated driver is selected and some basic guidelines are established to prevent drinking and driving.
10. Properly Maintain Trash and Debris
    With crowds and moving traffic, uncontained trash and debris can become dangerous and distracting. Aluminum cans and glass especially, can cause injury and serious damage to your vehicle. For everyone’s safety, keep discarded items and trash out of roadways and walkways.