Columbia Fire Department shares safety tips ahead of hot Labor Day weekend

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

With hot weather expected through Labor Day weekend, the Columbia Fire Department is recommending that community members take steps to stay safe while celebrating.

Columbia Fire Assistant Chief Lester Shewmake said the department typically sees an increase in calls for grilling incidents and heat exhaustion during holiday weekends.

"A lot more people are out. So we do get some accidents on the holiday weekends," said Shewmake. "Individuals might be outside all day grilling and haven't been taking the proper amounts of water intake so it can overheat people pretty quick."

Shewmake said taking precautions and starting hydration early are key to preparing for outdoor holiday activities.

"Usually, what you're drinking today is going to hydrate you for tomorrow. So if you're planning on being outside, trying to hydrate early, obviously water is the best," said Shewmake. "Sports drinks that have electrolytes also help too, because you are sweating so much, you need it."

In addition to heat safety, Shewmake noted that grilling safety is another risk that can be overlooked during holiday festivities.

"A lot of the times what ends up happening is people are done grilling and they push the grill right up against the house because they're not thinking about it and it melts," said Shewmake. "It's one of those things that you go in the house to start eating and don't think about the grill being hot up against the house."

The department recommends a couple key practices for those planning to grill:

• Place grills away from the house and structures.
• Ensure nothing is leaking or dripping from the grill, especially onto wooden decks.
• Allow charcoal to cool completely before disposal.
• Keep a fire extinguisher nearby.

With dry weather expected throughout the weekend, the risk for vegetation fires and wildfires is also elevated. Shewmake advised residents to clear debris and shrubs from around their homes to help reduce the risk of fire spread.

During the holiday weekend, the weather will be dry, and there is a higher chance of vegetation fires and wildfires. Shewmake said that folks should make sure to remove any debris or shrubs from around their house to diminish the risk of a fire spreading.

As Columbia residents prepare for the long weekend, Shewmake emphasized that taking basic precautions allows everyone to celebrate safely.

"We want everyone to enjoy the holiday safely and make sure they're hydrated properly and have a good vacation and have a good holiday," said Shewmake.