As restrictions ease and gatherings resume, this summer will likely be a busy one. Many Berkeley County families are eager to make up for the fun they missed last summer, cramming their calendars with picnics and pool days.
COVID-19 is less of a threat this summer, but enjoying fun in the sun is not without its risks – especially when food is involved. While bacteria won’t likely receive an invitation to your outdoor shindig, these party crashers are sure to make an appearance if food is not kept at the proper temperature. In fact, foodborne illness affects about one in six Americans each year, according to the CDC.
Our team of experienced premises liability attorneys at West Law Firm would like to offer a few tips for staying safe during picnics and backyard barbecues.
1. Chill out.
Here’s a good rule of thumb: Cold food should not sit out for more than two hours after serving (or one hour for outdoor temperatures over 90 degrees). This applies to many chilled side dishes that are popular at picnics, like macaroni salad, potato salad, deviled eggs and sliced watermelon.
2. Master the grill.
Be sure to keep separate tools and platters for raw and cooked foods. Never touch cooked burgers, hot dogs, chicken, etc. with the same tongs or spatula you used to put them on the grill. Use a meat thermometer to be sure that your food has reached the proper internal temperature.
3. Don’t chance it.
It can be tricky to keep cold foods cold and hot foods hot when dining outside on a Lowcountry summer day, so if you suspect food might have been left out too long, throw it away. It is better to be safe than sorry!
4. Make a storage strategy.
Store food and beverages in separate coolers to prevent cold air from escaping every time someone reaches for a drink. Pack uncooked meat on the bottom of the designated food cooler just in case any juices or marinades leak out.
What to Do If an Accident Occurs
Nothing puts a damper on the day like an illness or injury – and matters can quickly get complicated if an accident occurs on someone else’s property. Our premises liability attorneys here at West Law Firm see it time and time again, and when accidents happen, we are here to help.
From swimming pool accidents to bonfires gone wrong, if your host’s negligence caused your injury, you may be eligible for compensation. Click here for a quick refresher on premises liability, then contact our premises liability attorneys today! Call 843-761-5626 or click here to schedule your free consultation at our Moncks Corner office.