Published: August 28, 2008 01:44 pm         

Be safe

Some tips to keep it fun

The upcoming Labor Day weekend marks the unofficial end of summer. It’s a time when folks kick back around the pool or spend time on a riverbank soaking in those last few rays of sunshine before the onset of fall.

If you’re among the thousands of Hoosiers who will be taking to the roadways this weekend, be warned. Police will be out in force looking for motorists driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. They’ll also be looking for people who are speeding or following too closely, and they’ll be keeping an eye out for folks who aren’t wearing their seat belts.

If you plan to be out and about this weekend, take your time. The key to a weekend of fun is to get there safely, and without a speeding ticket.

Watch out for aggressive drivers. There will be lots of traffic on the roads, but road rage won’t make traffic move any faster.

Don’t forget to take time out for some rest. Fatigued drivers can be dangerous drivers.

Let someone know where you will be going and when you plan to be there, and make sure your vehicle is in good shape before your head out.

Always wear your seat belt, and make sure everyone in the car is wearing a seat belt or strapped into a child-safety seat.

Don't drink and drive, and don’t allow friends to do so either.

If you see a drunken driver, call 9-1-1. Give a vehicle description and direction of travel, but never follow someone who is driving erratically.

If you spend the weekend closer to home, avoid taking unnecessary risks. Be careful when boating, swimming or using all-terrain vehicles.

Everyone loves a cookout, but please remember that grills can be dangerous. Never leave a hot grill unattended, and never try to move a lighted grill.

For those planning to spend time around the pool, here are some safety tips from the American Red Cross: Never swim alone. Swim only in supervised areas. Obey all rules and posted signs. Don’t mix alcohol and swimming.

Pay attention to local weather conditions and forecasts, and get out of the pool at the first sign of bad weather.

A three-day weekend was meant to be fun. With a little bit of common sense, we can keep it that way.