Stay Safe This Labor Day Weekend

Staying Safe This Labor Day: Tips from Waverly Rescue Squad

Labor Day weekend is a time to celebrate hard work, enjoy time with family and friends, and mark the unofficial end of summer. Whether you’re heading out on the road, firing up the grill, or spending time on the water, safety should always be part of your holiday plans. At Waverly Rescue Squad, our priority is keeping our community safe—and that starts with sharing a few reminders to help you enjoy the weekend responsibly.

1. Travel Safely

Labor Day is one of the busiest travel weekends of the year, and with more vehicles on the road comes a higher risk of accidents.

• Always wear your seatbelt, and make sure passengers are buckled up too.

• Avoid distractions like texting or checking your phone.

• Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs—plan a designated driver or rideshare if needed.

• Allow extra time for travel and expect heavy traffic.

2. Practice Fire and Grill Safety

Backyard cookouts are a Labor Day tradition, but open flames and hot grills can quickly become dangerous if not handled with care.

• Keep grills at least 10 feet away from homes, fences, and flammable materials.

• Never leave a lit grill unattended.

• Keep a fire extinguisher, water, or sand nearby in case of emergencies.

• Make sure children and pets stay away from hot surfaces.

3. Stay Safe on the Water

Many families celebrate the holiday with boating, swimming, or other water activities.

• Always wear a life jacket when boating.

• Avoid alcohol when operating boats or jet skis.

• Supervise children closely around pools, lakes, and rivers.

• Be mindful of weather conditions and avoid water activities during storms.

4. Heat and Hydration

Even in early September, Virginia temperatures can be high.

• Drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially if you’re outside.

• Take breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas.

• Watch for signs of heat exhaustion—dizziness, nausea, excessive sweating—and seek help if symptoms appear.

Waverly Rescue Squad is Here for You

Celebrating responsibly ensures a safe and memorable holiday for everyone. By taking a few simple precautions, you can protect yourself, your family, and your community this Labor Day weekend.

If you ever need us, Waverly Rescue Squad is just a call away—24/7, ready to serve and protect our neighbors. From all of us at Waverly Rescue Squad, we wish you a happy, safe, and enjoyable Labor Day!