Tailgating Tips To Keep You Safe

We are proud of our local sports teams, and with football season in full swing, there is a good chance you are planning a tailgate party at Ralphie’s Corral or at one of the local high schools. But, before you go, make sure you know the rules and follow a few essential safety tips to ensure your tailgate party doesn’t end early.

1. Keep your food cold. Nothing spoils a party like salmonella and food poisoning.
2. Check your grill. Make sure it’s in good condition and properly leveled before you light the coals or gas.
3. Pack a fire extinguisher. It’s best to pack a full-sized ABC extinguisher. This will give you quick access to sufficient fire retardant to extinguish the flames.
4. Wear sunscreen. It may be fall, but Colorado’s sun is infamous for causing sunburns year-round.
5. Watch the alcohol consumption. Know the rules at the venue about alcohol consumption. Never assume that having an open container is legal, and remember, it’s always banned at high school sporting events.
6. Brake it and gear it. Set your parking brake, and if you have a manual vehicle, make sure to keep it in gear. This will help ensure your vehicle doesn’t rock and roll along with the party.
7. Leave the guns at home. Having weapons on high school property is illegal, and displaying weapons at CU is against campus policy. Even if you have a valid conceal carry permit, it is best to leave the weapon at home to avoid any accidents.
8. Watch your surroundings. Tailgate parties happen in parking lots. This means lots of people having fun while standing in close proximity to moving cars. Always pay close attention to the movement of vehicles in the vicinity of your party.
9. Put the fire out before heading into the stadium. Always douse your coals, or cool off your gas burners before you head into the stadium. Remember, if it is not cool to the touch, it is not safe to put back in your vehicle.

We are as excited as you to see athletes from CU, Boulder High School, New Vista High School, Aparahoe Ridge High School, and Fairview High School on the field this fall! We wish you the best as you compete for top honors. Should your activities result in injuries, contact the Boulder legal team at Sloat, Nicholson & Hoover, P.C., and we will be happy to assist you.