05/14/2026
🌷 Your May Long Weekend Safety Checklist 🌷
The "May Two-Four" is finally here! Whether you are opening the cottage, firing up the grill for the first time, or heading out to the campground, a few minutes of prep ensures your long weekend stays relaxing and safe.
Before you kick back, run through this quick safety checklist:
🏠 Opening the Cottage or Trailer?
The "First Task" Rule: As soon as you arrive, make testing your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms your very first priority. Winter cold can drain batteries, so bring fresh spares in your "opening kit."
Check for "Roommates": Birds and squirrels love nesting in chimneys and vent pipes over the winter. Inspect your woodstove and furnace vents for blockages before lighting that first fire.
Visible Address: Ensure your emergency (911) sign is clear of new spring growth and visible from the road so first responders can find you quickly if needed.
🍔 The BBQ "Sizzle" Prep
The Soapy Leak Test: Before the first cookout, spray a 50/50 mix of dish soap and water on the hoses and connections. If you see bubbles when the gas is turned on, you’ve got a leak that needs fixing.
Clear the Tubes: Spiders often nest in burner tubes over the winter, which can cause dangerous "flashbacks." Give them a quick clean with a pipe cleaner or venturi brush.
Space it Out: Keep your grill at least 1 metre (3 feet) away from vinyl siding, deck railings, and out from under overhanging eaves.
🔥 Campfires & Yard Clean-up
Know Before You Glow: Spring can be deceptively dry. Always check the local municipal fire rating or burn ban status before lighting a brush pile or a campfire.
Soak, Stir, Repeat: Never leave a fire unattended. When you’re done, soak the ashes with water, stir them, and soak again until they are cool to the touch.
Wind Watch: If it’s a breezy day, skip the burning. Embers from spring yard waste can travel quickly into dry grass and structures.
🚤 On the Water
Lifejacket Check: Ensure you have enough lifejackets for everyone on board and that they still fit correctly (especially for growing kids!).
Cold Water Caution: Remember that while the air is getting warm, the water is still freezing. Always wear your PFD—it’s much harder to put one on once you’re in the water.
Let's keep our community safe this weekend! Have a wonderful and safe Victoria Day long weekend!
