Super Bowl Safety Tips

Millions of Americans will gather to watch the Super Bowl on Sunday. If you plan to host a get-together for the big game that weekend, keep these safety tips in mind to ensure that everyone has a fun and enjoyable celebration.

Be a Responsible Host

• Hire a professional bartender.
• Limit your alcohol intake.
• Encourage your guests not to drink and drive.
• Stop serving liquor toward the end of the evening.

Remember, you can be held liable and prosecuted if someone you served ends up in a drunk-driving crash.

Learn more about serving alcohol responsibly from the Insurance Information Institute.

Secure Your TV

• Do a quick check of your home and make sure all TVs are safely secured and touchdown proofed!
• If you have a heavier box-style TV, make sure you either secure it to a wall or place it on a low, stable piece of furniture that is appropriate for the TV’s size and weight.
• Be sure your flat-panel TV is properly secured with a mount that has a safety certification by an independent laboratory.

For more information, visit Check Your TV for Safety from the Huffington Post.

Electronics

• Never overload a socket.
• Use safety-tested power strips and cords.
• Never use cords or cables that are worn or frayed.

Food

• If you are grilling or frying, be sure not to leave the kitchen or grill unattended.
• Make sure a fire extinguisher is on hand.
• Check to ensure your home’s smoke detectors are in working order.
• To help avoid the possibility of food poisoning, do not keep food on the buffet at room temperature for more than 2 hours.

For more food safety information, check out the USDA’s First Down Food Safety Tips for your Super Bowl Party.

Pets

• Do not give your dog or cat alcohol, chips & dip, guacamole, ice cream, nuts, chocolate, fat trimmings, bones, or caffeinated beverages. These items can cause major health problems for your pets.
• Be sure to keep your trash secured and away from your pet.
• Place food on higher counters away from the reach of your pets.
• If your pet is shy, make sure you have a designated quiet area where they feel safe and secure.