It’s that time of year again! Football season is upon us which means you may be partaking in some serious tailgating. Tailgating, for some, may be more important than the game, so keep in mind if you are the host of a tailgate this football season, you need to follow some essential tips to score in the parking lot before any touchdowns happen on the field. Food, drinks, football spirit, and comradery create many memories; but you also want to keep everyone safe. Follow these tips to hosting a safe football tailgate party, while still having a celebratory time!
Planning a Successful Football Tailgate to Score Some Points
Scoring points for hosting a good time can happen before the kickoff, right there in the parking lot. Before you plan your football pre-party, here are some tips to keeping everything and everyone safe while still having a great time:
Make a Game Plan- The football team doesn’t show up without a game plan, nor should you when planning a successful tailgate. Start with a plan that centers around the game time start. If the game is a noon game, you may want to plan a menu with drinks that reflect a breakfast or brunch menu. For example, you may choose to do biscuits, quiche, and bloody Mary’s or mimosas. However, if the game is later in the day, you may choose to bring a grill and have hamburgers and hotdogs.
Also, plan to include an emergency kit in your vehicle, should any emergency/injury ensue. If the temps are dropping, bring some warm blankets and appropriate clothing.
Keep a Clean Workstation- Food handling and sanitation is key if you are hosting a tailgate. The last thing you want is to serve food from an unsanitary place and then your guests face the possibility of getting sick. It is recommended you have plenty paper towels, wipes, garbage bags, and sanitizer on hand for clean ups.
Follow Safe Temperatures for Food– If you are grilling hamburgers and hotdogs, (or any other meat) make sure you know the internal temperature of which to be served and eaten. Likewise, if you have pre-made food (subs, sandwiches, pasta salads,) make sure they are kept in a separate cooler, especially if temperatures are hot. If it is a cooler day, you can leave food out for approximately two hours, before it needs to be consumed or thrown out.
Designate a Driver for the Post Game- Before the alcohol is served, make sure each person has a safe way to get home following the game or post-game tailgate. Nobody should get behind the wheel of a car after consuming alcohol. If nobody is able to drive, then have a plan to call a driving service, like Uber or Lyft. Also, make sure there is water available at your tailgate and encourage those attending to stay hydrated.
Look for the Final Pass- The tailgate was a success, your team won (hopefully), and now it’s time to head home. Take a final pass around your vehicle and clean up any remaining garbage such as plates, napkins, cups, and bottles that could be hazardous to other people in the parking lot and those exiting traffic. When leaving, drive carefully due to the excess of traffic. Go team!
Cameron Group Insurance is here for you to answer all questions you may have regarding the big tailgate or the ride home. Your safety concerns and insurance needs are what drives us! You can count on us to provide the right insurance protection for all your needs at a price you can afford. Don’t wait! Call us today at 845-627-2130.
