CDA Fire: Be safe this weekend

The Coeur d'Alene Fire Department on Friday offered tips to ensure people stay safe this weekend.

Grilling

1) The grill should be placed well away from the home, deck, railings and out from under the eaves and overhanging branches.

2) Keep children and pets at least 3 feet from the grilling area.

3) Keep your grill clean by removing grease or fat buildup from the grill and in trays.

1. Never leave your grill unattended.

Camping

1) Use designated fire rings in National Forests and state properties. If no fire ring is available, scrape the ground down to mineral soil or build fire in an area with no grass or brush.

2) Always have a bucket and shovel available to assist in fire extinguishment.

3) Extinguish fire before leaving it unattended or going to sleep. Be sure the fire is out and cold to the touch.

Boating

1) Ensure that each person on the vessel has a properly fitting personal floatation device.

2) Bring a friend. Paddling in groups is safer than paddling alone. Plus it’s more fun to enjoy your time on the water with friends.

3) If you do head out alone, make sure someone knows where you are going and when you are expected to return.

4) Dress appropriately. It may be warm outside, but our lakes and rivers are still cold and many are running higher and faster than normal. The current water temperature of Lake Coeur d'Alene is 59 degrees.

Don’t drink and drive

Memorial Day begins summer's 100 Deadliest Days, when motor vehicle collisions increase dramatically. If you drink alcohol, do it responsibly and ensure that you have a designated driver to get you home safely.