Your Safety Guide to the 2018 Super Bowl

The Super Bowl might as well be an American holiday. Millions of people from across the country will be tuning in for Sunday’s game. While it is important to have fun on Super Bowl Sunday, there are also safety risks that may be overlooked. Instances of drunk driving could increase over the weekend. Foodborne illnesses could cause you, loved ones or friends to become seriously ill. Our guide may help you avoid these hazards.

Food Safety Tips for the Super Bowl

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has posted multiple safety tips that could reduce the chances of food poisoning or spreading illnesses.

1. Practice cleanliness: Wash your hands with antibacterial soap for at least 20 seconds before preparing, eating or handling food. Cutting boards, dishes, countertops and cooking utensils should also be thoroughly washed with water and antibacterial soap.
2. Make sure food is fully cooked: Undercooked food can cause food poisoning. The CDC recommends using a food thermometer for chicken wings, beef sliders or other meats. You can find more information about safe temperatures for specific foods by visiting Foodsafety.gov. It is also important to maintain safe temperatures for cold and hot foods. For instance, keep salsa and guacamole at below 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
3. Avoid contaminating food: Separate raw meats from ready-to-eat foods. You could also provide guests with utensils or plates to keep them from eating directly from bowls with salsa, guacamole or other foods.
4. Refrigerate leftovers: Discard or refrigerate perishable foods within two hours of preparation. Leftovers should be refrigerated at below 40 degrees Fahrenheit. In addition, leftovers should be frozen or consumed within three days.

What About Driving Safety During the Super Bowl?

Are you going to be drinking on Super Bowl Sunday? If you plan to drink, then you should make preparations get home ahead of time. The Washington Regional Alcohol Program (WRAP) has published several suggestions for finding a sober driver. You could use a taxi service, ridesharing company or public transportation. Do you know someone who does not drink? You could ask if they will serve as a designated driver.

There are other important safety tips for Super Bowl Sunday. If you are hosting a party, then never serve guests who appear intoxicated. You could also stop serving alcohol one to two hours before the party ends. Finally, never allow an impaired guest to drive. Find them an alternative means of transportation if you are able.

The Washington DC personal injury lawyers at Regan Zambri Long PLLC hope everyone has a fun Super Bowl Sunday. Please stay safe and continue following our blog for updates on safety tips.