Stay Safe This Memorial Day: Tips Every Michigan Family Should Know
- Rabih Hamawi
- 2 days ago
- 4 min read
Happy Memorial Day! I hope you're getting a chance to slow down, enjoy some sunshine, and spend quality time with the people you care about. While it’s the unofficial start of summer for many of us here in Michigan, it’s also a time to reflect and remember the brave men and women who gave their lives while serving our country!
This year, Memorial Day falls on Monday, May 26, 2025. Whether you're heading to the lake, firing up the grill, or hitting the road, I wanted to share a few simple tips to help you and your loved ones stay safe over the long weekend. It’s all about being prepared—because even a quick check-in on your home, car, or insurance coverage can make a big difference when the unexpected happens.
Why Safety Matters on Memorial Day Weekend
Memorial Day is one of the busiest—and most dangerous—travel weekends of the year. It often sees a spike in accidents and emergencies that can quickly turn celebration into crisis.
The combination of increased traffic, cookouts, boating, fireworks, and crowded public spaces leads to a rise in:
Auto accidents
Fires and grill-related incidents
Drownings and boating accidents
Home and property damage
Emergency room visits
In fact, the National Safety Council estimates that hundreds of traffic fatalities occur nationwide during Memorial Day weekend each year. Many of these risks are preventable—with a little awareness and preparation.
Top Memorial Day Safety Tips for Michigan Families
Whether you're hitting the road, hosting a gathering, or relaxing at the cottage, these tips can help protect your health, your home, and your pocket.
Grill and Fire Safety
Barbecues are a Memorial Day favorite, but fire accidents are far too common. Always keep your grill at least 10 feet away from your house, garage, or any nearby trees, and never leave it unattended while in use. Cleaning the grease tray regularly helps prevent dangerous flare-ups. It’s also important not to overload power strips when plugging in outdoor cooking appliances. According to the National Fire Protection Association, nearly 20,000 emergency room visits occur each year due to grill-related injuries—many of which are preventable with just a few simple precautions.
Travel and Road Safety
Michigan roads become especially congested during Memorial Day weekend. The increase in traffic often leads to more accidents—and more insurance claims. To stay safe, always wear your seat belt, obey speed limits, and keep distractions to a minimum by putting your phone away while driving. Before heading out, check your vehicle’s tires, brakes, and fluids to ensure everything is road-ready. Don’t forget to verify that your auto insurance policy is active and provides adequate coverage for your needs!
Water Safety at Lakes and Pools
With its beautiful lakes and warm weather, Michigan is the perfect place to spend Memorial Day near the water—but that comes with responsibility. Make sure children wear life jackets at all times near water, and never swim alone. Alcohol and boating don’t mix, so if you’re operating a boat, stay sober. During gatherings at pools or beaches, designate a responsible adult as the “water watcher” to keep a close eye on swimmers and react quickly in case of emergency.
Protecting Your Home or Cottage
If you’re leaving your home or cottage for the holiday, taking a few basic steps can help prevent damage or loss while you’re away. Start by installing or testing your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they’re functioning properly. Unplug nonessential appliances to reduce fire risk, and double-check that all doors and windows are locked. If possible, install a water shutoff valve or a smart monitoring system to help avoid costly water damage from burst pipes or leaks while the property is unoccupied.
By planning ahead and keeping safety top of mind, you can help ensure this Memorial Day weekend is filled with nothing but good memories. Whether you're relaxing at home or traveling across Michigan, a little preparation goes a long way in preventing accidents—and avoiding insurance claims.
Must Read: An insured must review his or her insurance policy at least annually
As Michigan residents, it is important to prepare for any unforeseen circumstances. Whether it's the harsh winter weather, the large number of auto accidents, fires, burst pipes, or other unforeseen emergencies, having the right insurance coverage can make all the difference.
Need Legal Assistance?
If your insurance company has denied, delayed, or underpaid your insurance claim, contact Law Office of Rabih Hamawi for a case evaluation at (248) 905-1133 or simply click the button below to get started!
Who is Rabih Hamawi?
Attorney & Counselor
Rabih Hamawi is a principal at the Law Office of Rabih Hamawi, P.C. and focuses his practice on representing policyholders in fire, property damage, and insurance-coverage disputes against insurance companies and in errors-and-omissions cases against insurance agents. He may be reached at (248) 905-1133.
