With fall just around the corner and football training camps underway it will not be long until parking lots are filled with fans getting ready for the big game. Whether it is Friday night lights, your favorite school’s rivalry, or the big game on Sunday, here are some tips from 21st Century Insurance on how to make sure your pregame tailgate is a safe and fun one.
- Be sure to put plenty of ice in your cooler, particularly if you are bringing raw or uncooked meat. It’s important to keep meat cold before cooking to prevent food poisoning.
- If you’re grilling, make sure to bring a fire extinguisher.
- After your tailgate is finished, throw away all food that may spoil. Leftovers may be tempting after the game, but they may also be dangerous.
- If you’re using a charcoal grill, make sure to cool the coals properly before putting them in a garbage container or back in your car.
- Make sure you can see properly and that there are no items in your way, such as bottle or cans before starting to drive.
- If any guests have been drinking alcohol, make sure they don’t get behind the wheel. They may think they’re sober after the exhilaration of the game, but it’s more important to be safe.
One key to any great party is the food, and a tailgating party is no different. Whether you bring pizzas or grill burgers, hot dogs or brats, make sure you have plenty of food to enjoy. Another key to the party is drinks. If you’re serving alcohol, make sure people are being safe in how much they drink or play it safe by not serving alcohol. Music and other entertainment are also important: make sure to bring along some classic pre-game tunes and a football or two to throw around.
One final key to make your party a success is tailgating safety. If you are smart, and follow the above guidelines, your guests will be healthy and safe, before, during, and after the game.
