As the unofficial end of summer 2025 arrives this Labor Day weekend, we encourage everyone to stay safe! Whether you’re traveling, entertaining friends and family, or tackling outdoor projects, be sure to have fun while staying vigilant to prevent accidents before they happen.

At UGI Energy Services, safety and energy awareness go hand in hand, especially during busy holiday weekends when electricity and fuel use increase. Please take a couple minutes to review the following practical Labor Day safety tips to keep your holiday stress-free, energy-smart, and safe for the whole family.

Outdoor Electric Safety

Holiday weekends often involve outdoor lighting, fans, and sound systems, as well as a variety of power tools—all of which rely on electricity. However, outdoor electric use comes with risks, especially around water or during unpredictable late-summer weather. A few timely safety reminders:

• Use outdoor-rated extension cords and plugs. Not all cords are created equal. Be sure to use cords labeled for outdoor use and rated for the equipment you’re powering.
  
  
• Keep cords dry and off the ground. Avoid laying cords in wet grass, puddles, or areas prone to moisture. Elevate cords using plastic hangers or hooks and secure them away from high-traffic areas to prevent tripping.
• Avoid overloading circuits. Plugging in too many devices can trip breakers or cause overheating. Spread out your appliances across different outlets and avoid using multi-outlet adapters outdoors.
• Check cords and devices for damage. Frayed wires, cracked plugs, or signs of wear can lead to electrocution or fire. Replace damaged items before use.
• Never use electrical devices near water. If you’re around pools, lakes, or even kiddie pools, keep all electronics at a safe distance and consider installing ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) on outdoor outlets. They help prevent electric shock by shutting off power if a fault is detected.
• Check tool batteries and cords before you begin. Battery-operated and corded tools can pose serious hazards if they’ve been sitting idle for months. Check for swollen batteries, frayed cords, and cracked casings before powering anything on, and follow manufacturer instructions for battery disposal and replacement.

Practice Water Safety

Cooling off by the water is a Labor Day favorite. Whether you're swimming, boating, or relaxing on the dock, keeping safety top of mind is key.

Here’s how to make a splash without the risks:

• Supervise children closely. Accidents can happen quickly and quietly. Assign a water watcher to keep an eye on kids at all times and avoid distractions like phones or headphones.
  
  
• Wear life jackets. Whether you're boating or paddleboarding, life jackets are essential, especially for kids and weaker swimmers.
• Avoid alcohol when swimming or driving a boat. Alcohol impairs judgment and coordination, increasing the risk of injury.
• Check the weather and water conditions. Strong currents, storms, or low visibility can be dangerous. Look up weather alerts and local advisories before heading out on the water.
• Know CPR. In emergencies, a fast response saves lives. Consider taking a certified CPR course to stay prepared.

Grill Safety for a Fire-Free Feast

No Labor Day celebration is complete without a backyard barbecue, but before you strike a match, remember these grilling safety tips you may not have thought of:

• Keep your grill at least 10 feet from your home or other buildings. Also, remember to never grill under overhangs, near decks, or in garages.
• Inspect and clean your grill before and after use. Use a grill brush and dispose of grease properly to avoid unexpected grease fires.
• Use long-handled tools and heat-resistant gloves. This lets you avoid burns and keep a safe distance while cooking.
• Utilize a meat thermometer. Not only does it ensure food safety, but avoiding undercooked meat also reduces the temptation to keep items on the grill too long, saving energy.
• Don’t rely on lighter fluid. When using charcoal grills, avoid excessive lighter fluid, which can cause unpredictable flare-ups. Instead, use a chimney starter for a safer, more eco-friendly ignition method.

Safely Tackle Outdoor Projects

As the long weekend offers more time for home improvement, it's crucial to put safety first during any project.

• Work during daylight hours. Outdoor lighting may help in a pinch, but it can’t match natural visibility. Plan to complete projects while there’s plenty of daylight, when visibility is better, and hazards are easier to spot. Plus, you'll save energy on lighting in the process!

• Stay Hydrated & Take Breaks: Labor Day often brings warmer temperatures. Drink plenty of water and take regular breaks to avoid heat exhaustion—especially during the warmer afternoons typical in late summer.
• Wear Protective Gear: Gloves, safety glasses, and sturdy footwear (not flip flops!) reduce injury risk.
• Know when to call a pro. Some jobs — like tree trimming near power lines or roofing work — are better left to licensed professionals. If a task feels out of your comfort zone, don’t risk it. Hiring help could save more than just time.

Celebrate Labor Day Safely with UGI Energy Services

At UGI Energy Services, we believe safety is always worth celebrating — not just on holidays, but every day. From Labor Day safety tips to dependable service, we're here to help you stay safe and efficient all year long.

Contact us today to learn how we can support your energy needs this Labor Day and beyond.