San Francisco or Kansas City? Regardless, your safety comes first!

by

Chief Sam DiGiovanna

As you prepare for Super Bowl festivities make sure to be a good sport and keep your ‘safety’ front and center at all times.  11 million Americans call in sick the day after Super Bowl.  As such, here’s some advice that will help you make it to work on Monday.

Are you hosting the game in your Home Field? Be a good quarterback and avoid a false start with unhealthy foods. Keep the ‘tight end’ looking just that ‘tight’ by adding healthy snacks to your menu instead of high fat foods, or go for that super bowl trophy by serving all healthy snacks. Let’s avoid that ‘wide receiver’ if possible.  (Editor’s note:  the average amount calories consumed on Super Bowl Sunday is a staggering 11,000 calories).

Watch your ‘Safety’ as you prepare game day meals and snacks, follow food safety guidelines to prevent illness. If you’re barbecuing make sure you have a fire extinguisher near and keep the grill away from combustibles.

Limit alcohol. None of us want a penalty for drinking and driving. Be a good Line Backer and take steps to make sure you and other guests avoid driving under the influence of alcohol. Be a good Center and designate a non-drinking driver before any party or celebration begins.

Never leave children unattended. Make sure your pets can handle the excitement before placing them in new or strange situations.

Don’t be the “Offensive Lineman” by being a poor sport or offending others. People and their behavior have a tendency to change on Super Bowl Sunday. Don’t get tackled un-expectantly, keep the attitude in check and use common sense!

Have fun, be safe and avoid any unnecessary roughage by being smart!

….and Go Niners!

About Chief Sam DiGiovanna

Sam DiGiovanna is a 33-year fire service veteran. He started with the Los Angeles County Fire Department, served as fire chief at the Monrovia Fire Department and currently serves as chief at the Verdugo Fire Academy in Glendale, Calif.