With Labor Day weekend upon us, Oneida County Sheriff Robert M. Maciol has some safety tips for traveling and enjoying the last holiday weekend of the summer.

Labor Day is synonymous with the end of summer, and the long weekend, which typically has events like backyard barbecues, trips to the lake, picnics, and camping, Maciol said. Even festive events like these present hazards you should be aware of, and “safety first” should always be your motto.

Safety while traveling:

• Do not drink and drive.

• Let someone know your destination, your route, and when you expect to arrive.

• Know your route and check weather conditions beforehand and throughout the day.

• Buckle up and observe speed limits.

• Avoid driving distractions such as cell phone conversations and texting.

Safety while swimming & boating:

• Boating and alcohol are a dangerous combination.

• Check weather and water conditions beforehand and throughout the day.  Water temperatures can be deceiving and unexpectedly cold.

• Always swim with a friend and stay in designated swimming areas, which are supervised by a lifeguard.

• Provide constant supervision to children in or near the water and always stay within arm’s reach of young children and inexperienced swimmers while they are in the water.

• Wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket.

The members of the Oneida County Sheriff’s Office wish you a safe and fun Labor Day Weekend.