Memorial Day weekend is often seen as the unofficial start of summer—a time for backyard barbecues, pool parties, bonfires, and patriotic fun with family and friends. But with all the celebrations, this holiday also brings a spike in emergency room visits due to accidents, injuries, and alcohol-related incidents.
Dr. Ellie Salinski, Bayhealth Emergency Physician and Assistant Medical Director of the Bayhealth Emergency Department at Kent Campus, shares that many Memorial Day injuries are preventable. From alcohol misuse to pool and fire hazards, a fun weekend can quickly turn into a medical emergency if basic precautions aren’t followed.
To help ensure your holiday remains safe and enjoyable, Dr. Salinski offers her top Memorial Day safety tips.
Why Memorial Day Weekend Safety Matters
A Spike in Emergency Room Visits
Every year, ERs across the country see a dramatic uptick in Memorial Day weekend injuries. Most of these incidents stem from alcohol misuse, unsafe grilling, pool accidents, or bonfire burns.
“People often underestimate how quickly things can go wrong,” says Dr. Salinski. “Whether it’s too much alcohol, an unattended grill, or a child left near a pool, these are common situations that can end in tragedy.”
By following a few simple safety guidelines, families can drastically reduce the risks and focus on making lasting memories.
Alcohol Safety: Celebrate Responsibly
Alcohol is frequently involved in holiday weekend celebrations—but when consumed irresponsibly, it becomes a leading cause of injury and death.
Tips for Safe Drinking:
- Drink in moderation: Limit alcohol consumption to one standard drink per hour to give your body time to metabolize it.
- Never drink alone: Having someone nearby can be the difference between life and death if you become injured or ill.
- Avoid mixing alcohol with risky activities: That includes driving, operating power tools, riding ATVs, or using lawn equipment.
- Don’t drink while supervising children: Your ability to focus, react, and prevent accidents is compromised when under the influence.
Too much alcohol too quickly can lead to alcohol poisoning, falls, or poor judgment that puts everyone at risk. Be mindful of how much you’re drinking and always designate a sober adult.
Grill Safety: Prevent Fires and Burns
Backyard barbecues are a staple of the summer season, but grilling carries real risk—especially when alcohol is involved or safety guidelines are ignored.
Grill Smart:
- Never leave a grill unattended, especially when it’s uncovered.
- Keep children and pets away from hot surfaces and grills.
- Set your grill up on stable, flat ground away from flammable materials like dry grass or deck railings.
- Have a fire extinguisher or baking soda nearby in case of flare-ups.
A fun BBQ can go south quickly if a grease fire starts or someone trips into the hot grill. Stay focused and keep safety first.
Bonfire and Fire Pit Safety: Stay Aware of Wind and Flames
Memorial Day weekend is often filled with campfires and s’mores—but fire safety should always come first.
Outdoor Fire Tips:
- Check wind conditions before lighting a fire. Shifting winds can redirect flames or embers.
- Don’t get too close to open flames, especially if you’re wearing loose or synthetic clothing.
- Keep a safe perimeter around the fire, and don’t leave it unattended.
- Never attempt to extinguish a large fire without help—call 911 immediately if a fire gets out of control.
Burns are some of the most painful and long-term injuries ERs see during the summer months. Stay alert and be cautious around flames.
Pool Safety: Protect Children and Guests
With Memorial Day marking the unofficial start of pool season, drownings and near-drownings unfortunately become more frequent. Most are completely preventable.
Pool Safety Musts:
- Never leave a child unattended near water—even for a few seconds.
- Ensure there is a designated “water watcher” during pool activities.
- Install proper fencing and pool alarms if you own a pool.
- Avoid alcohol while supervising swimmers.
Even shallow water can be dangerous for young children or impaired adults. Drowning is often silent, so constant supervision is key.
Additional Summer Safety Reminders
- Don’t smoke near anyone using oxygen—this can lead to severe burns or explosions.
- Use sunscreen and stay hydrated, especially in high temperatures.
- Have a first aid kit and fire extinguisher nearby for any backyard gatherings.
What to Do in an Emergency
If an injury, fire, or medical emergency does occur, don’t hesitate—call 911 or visit your nearest emergency department. Bayhealth’s ER teams are trained and equipped to provide life-saving care 24/7.
To learn more about Bayhealth’s Emergency and Walk-in Medical Services.
FAQs:
1. What is the most common injury during Memorial Day weekend?
Alcohol-related accidents—such as car crashes, falls, and burns—are among the most common. Drowning and grill-related burns also increase.
2. How much alcohol is safe to drink during a holiday gathering?
Limit yourself to one drink per hour. More than that can impair judgment and increase the risk of injury or alcohol poisoning.
3. Is it safe to drink and grill at the same time?
No. Drinking while grilling increases the risk of fires and burns. Always designate a sober person to handle the grill.
4. What’s the safest way to supervise children near a pool?
Assign a sober adult as a designated water watcher, and never leave children unattended—even if they know how to swim.
5. What should I do if a bonfire gets out of control?
Call 911 immediately. Don’t attempt to put out large fires yourself if you don’t have the right equipment or training.
