In three days it’ll be Mother’s Day. Have you planned a treat for her yet — breakfast in bed, perhaps, or some shopping at the mall or what about an early outdoor barbecue? You can think of her favorite activities and organize something that you can enjoy together. It is almost certain Mom is looking forward to spending some time with you. Give her a big hug to say thank you and make sure Mother’s Day is precious maternal time well-spent with Mom.
Safety Tips:
If you’re going shopping —
• Always be aware of your surroundings. Be alert for suspicious persons or unusual activity around you.
• Be on your guard when strangers approach you. All year round, con artists are always hard at work trying to distract you.
• Do not wear expensive jewelry. You don’t want to catch attention.
• Refrain from carrying a lot of cash. Pay for purchases with checks or credit cards.
• Avoid carrying a wallet or purse, if you can. If you must carry one, place it in the front pocket to limit a pickpocket’s chances of getting to your wallet.
• Don’t forget where you parked your car.
• Be sure to conceal your previous purchases if you leave your parked car. Don’t leave them in the open where thieves can see them.
• Have your car keys ready in your hand as you approach your car.
If you’re planning a picnic or a barbecue —
• Make sure cold food remains cold. During transport, place them in containers with ice or frozen packs. Temperature in the cooler should remain at 41°F or lower.
• Wash your hands. You may be outdoors, but food safety begins with clean hands. You could use disposable towelettes for this purpose.
• Make sure all platters and utensils used to prepare food are clean.
• For grilling, marinate foods in your refrigerator not on the table or outdoors. Do not re-use marinade. If you intend to use some marinade as sauce on cooked food, reserve what you need separately before you marinate the food.
• Keep grilled food hot until you serve it. Place it on the side of the rack, a few inches away from the coals to avoid overcooking.
• Don’t serve food in a plate previously used to hold raw food. Wash the plate first in hot, soapy water before using it.
• Hot food must be kept hot, at a minimum 135°F. You can use an insulated container to preserve heat.
• Avoid having perishable food sit out more than two hours.
• If outdoor temperature is above 90°F, do not let food sit out longer than an hour.
If you’re traveling —
• Know your route. Plan it ahead of time. Double check directions regularly, especially when driving at night.
• Inform a relative or trusted friend about your itinerary, and update them for changes you make en route.
• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash. Bring traveler’s checks or a credit card.
• Bring a list of important phone numbers. Make two copies and put one in your wallet, the other in your suitcase. If you have children with you, give them copies of these numbers.