10 Pro Party Tips to Keep Guests Safe
10 Pro Party Tips to Keep Guests Safe
It's never too high on the party checklist, but keeping guests safe when you gather should be one of your primary goals when you host a party.
Here are ten ways to impress even Debbie Downer with your forward thinking safety plan for your next party. And remember, enjoy!
Riding High
If you'll be serving alcohol, encourage guests to take a ride share or select a designated driver to ensure that everyone gets home safely.
As a back up, have a plan to remove car keys away from those who shouldn't drive for their own and others' safety. Promise next morning car transport support to get the job done without objections.
Clear the Decks
Clear floor clutter and move any animal toys out of the main traffic flow. Store balls, LEGO and other small items that may roll and cause a guest to trip and fall.
Eyes and Ears
While you can't be in two places at once, it's important to know where and how you can best supervise children and guests in your care.
If there are spaces in your home or venue that could be dangerous, make those off limits.
Consider hiring childcare to serve as an additional set of eyes and ears at your party. And by hiring, I mean ask your older - at least middle school aged - child to help out!
Party Fowl
Set timers to monitor room temperature food that should not be out for more than 2 hours or 120 minutes.
Pay special attention to items with dairy based sauces and proteins such as chicken, turkey, and other meats.
Here's a great infographic on how to ensure food safety for parties from FoodSafety.gof, a division of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
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Water Logged
If you're hosting a pool party or a gathering around open water - lake, pond, river - have appropriate supervision on hand.
For a pool party, hire a local lifeguard from the YMCA for peace of mind and ultimate safety. They may have guests limits per guard so be sure to discuss this with your YMCA contact.
If a lifeguard won't be on site, be sure you designate an adult to watch children. Plan a schedule so all parents/guests can pitch in to help make it a fun and safe event for all ages!
Likewise, ensure that wet spots in your home are cared for to avoid slips and falls.
Venue Safety
If you're hosting a gathering at a third-party venue, do a safety walk through with your site coordinator. Include exit routes, fire extinguishers, exterior lighting, safe parking routes, and other external issues of note.
Hot Spot
Regardless of the season, it's always fun to entertain outside and that often includes warming torches, fire pits, candles and the like. Ensure that all open flames are contained and if you're hosting any kind of bonfire, have a fire extinguisher on hand.
No Ouchies
Ensure that any potentially harmful household items - scissors, knives, etc. - are out of children's reach. Always lock up guns and store ammunition away from guns.
Get Help When You Need It
If you do have an emergency, call 911 immediately and administer First Aid and CPR as necessary.
Let's Be Social
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* Disclaimer I am not a doctor nor a safety expert, but I am a mother, frequent hostess and am a vigilant safety monitor. Always use good judgement and take care of those in your home.
Photos courtesy of Unsplash