4th of July Blowout...

243 years ago a group of terrorists made the effort to legalize their rebellion. God Bless their work. 

Across this great nation of ours, most of us are preparing to celebrate Independence Day. Chances are, your festivities will include fireworks, celebrating with close friends and family and great food. Safety is ALWAYS pushed this time of year ... especially when it comes to firework safety. ​
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But, what about the risks surrounding the food we'll be BBQing?

If you're like most, you're not thinking about the hidden dangers of food poisoning. Statistically, incidents of food-related illnesses spike in the summer months so chances are; it can happen to you. 

Here are a few quick tips for you to remember as you hit the grills, watch the fireworks and enjoy quality time with friends and family:

1. Most importantly, remember The Core 4
2. Bring soap to wash your hands. Always wash your hands before and after you prepare food. If you don’t have running water use a hand sanitizer or sanitizer wipes.
3. Never transport food in the trunk. Always transport food in the cabin of the car where you can control the environment and make certain there is no accidental contamination.
4. Do not let the food sit in the car for more than an hour, especially on days when the temperature exceeds 90F. (The ideal temperature for Microbial growth is 90-115F.)
5. Don’t allow perishable foods to be left out of refrigeration for more than 2 hours.
6. Pack plenty of Ice. Leftover food should be discarded if the ice has completely melted by the time you get it home. So, check your Ice levels and restock as necessary.
7. Keep raw food separate from each other. Do not allow raw meats to come into contact with other foods.
8. Make sure your food is fully cooked, especially ground meat products like hamburgers and sausages. Use a thermometer!! Don't rely on color! Red meat should be cooked to 145F (+3 minutes of rest to maintain juiciness). Ground products should be in excess of 160F.  Chicken should always be cooked to 165F.
9. Remember to use sunscreen and bug spray. 
10. Adult Beverage Safety REQUIREMENT! If you have a pint too many, call a driver. 

Finally, I ask one favor. Remember that it is not the politician, journalist or activist that protects our Freedoms. It is the Sailor, the Marine, the Soldier, and Law Enforcement that protects your rights. So leave a pint for the Fallen who gave their lives for yours. 

Sláinte
James

Science | Safety | Sustainability
http://www.ThatFoodSafetyGuy.com
Instagram▫️Facebook▫️Twitter @ThatFSGuy

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