Millions of Americans will gather to watch the Super Bowl game this year. If you plan to host a get-together for the big game, keep these safety tips in mind to ensure that everyone has a fun and enjoyable celebration.

Be a Responsible Host

• Hire a professional bartender.
• Limit your alcohol intake.
• Stop serving liquor toward the end of the evening.
• Encourage your guests not to drink and drive. Have the number of a local cab company handy. Remember, you can be prosecuted if someone you served ends up in a drunk-driving crash.

Secure Your TV

• Did you know that the day before the Super Bowl is National TV Safety Day? Do a quick check of your home and make sure all TVs are safely secured and touchdown-proofed!
• If you have a heavier box-style TV, make sure you either secure it to a wall or place it on a low, stable piece of furniture that is appropriate for the TV’s size and weight.
• Be sure your flat-panel TV is properly secured with a mount that has a safety certification by an independent laboratory.

Electrical

• Never overload a socket.
• Use safety tested power strips and cords.
• Never use wiring that is worn down.

Food

• When grilling or frying, be sure not to leave the grill or kitchen unattended.
• Make sure a fire extinguisher is on hand, and check to ensure your home’s smoke detectors are in working order.
• To help avoid the possibility of food poisoning, do not keep food on the buffet at room temperature for more than two hours.

Pets

• Do not give your dog or cat alcohol, chips and dip, guacamole, ice cream, nuts, chocolate, fat trimmings, bones, or caffeinated beverages. These items can cause major health problems in pets.
• Be sure to keep trash away from your pet.
• Place food on counters out of your pets’ reach.
• Put your friends’ shoes away if your dog is known for munching on footwear.
• If your pet is shy, have a designated quiet area where they feel safe and secure.