WASHINGTON, DC—Memorial Day marks the start of summer, and many people celebrate by taking a road trip, hosting a cookout, or swimming or sunbathing. The American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP) offers five tips to start summer safely.

“Summer fun can quickly become dangerous unless you are prioritizing safe choices,” said Alison Haddock, MD, FACEP, president of ACEP. “You can have fun while taking a few simple precautions to make sure your activities don’t result in a trip to the emergency department.”

Follow these top five tips for safe and healthy holiday fun:

1. Travel safely and follow the rules of the road. The AAA projects that nearly 40 million people will hit the roads this weekend. But with more travel comes more travel accidents. Always wear a seatbelt. Minimize distractions, including cellphone use, while driving. Before you leave, plan your trip route and ensure your vehicle is in good working order.
2. Be careful in or near water. Every year in the United States, there are more than 4,000 unintentional drowning deaths, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Never leave children unattended by the pool, on a boat, or at the beach. Always wear a lifejacket when on a boat. Learn CPR to be prepared in case of emergency.
3. Handle food safely. The CDC estimates that each year, 48 million people get sick from a foodborne illness. Wash your hands and your cooking surfaces, keep raw meat and eggs separate from other foods to avoid cross-contamination, cook foods to safe internal temperatures, and refrigerate leftovers properly. Before a cookout, make sure your grill is clean and serviced. Do not leave a grill or barbecue unattended when in use.
4. Soak up the sun, in moderation. The CDC estimates that more than 700 people die from extreme heat each year in the United States. Always wear sunscreen and reapply it frequently throughout the day. Make sure to drink plenty of water. If you experience any signs of dehydration or heatstroke, such as dizziness, headache, or nausea, get to a cool place immediately.
5. Do not drink and drive. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), every day about 34 people in the United States die in drunk-driving crashes. Never drink and drive, and never get in the car with someone who has been drinking. Designate a sober driver.