Many of us will be spending Memorial Day weekend outdoors.

Whether you are swimming, camping or barbecuing, here are some tips to ensure your three-day weekend is a safe one.Food SafetyWhen it comes to food preparation, cooking outdoors makes food taste so much better.But, Steven Ohl, president of R.F. Ohl in Lehighton, points out that we may be more distracted outside, especially with guests."We have a tendency to leave food items on the grill longer than we might do when cooking on a stove top or oven. This happens when we are socializing and we lose track of time," Ohl said.He said, "When you're grilling, do not take food prep shortcuts. Have plenty of soap and water to wash your hands and keep the food prep area free of contaminates."TicksPeople have already reported finding ticks after a day in the yard.While some may be cautious of ticks after this past winter, weather does not play a significant role in the tick population.According to Sue Gallagher, chief naturalist at the Carbon County Environmental Education Center, "A very cold, snowy winter is not necessarily an indication the tick population will be lower."Instead, the likelihood that ticks will spread Lyme disease depends on the abundance of deer mice, the primary host for deer ticks. "The more the small mammal population is held in check, the less chance ticks will acquire and spread disease," Gallagher said.If you happen to find a tick on your skin, talk to your doctor.Poison IvyIt is hard not to take advantage of the hiking trails nearby, but be aware of poison ivy, which grows in damp places.According to Sue Gallagher, "The old saying 'leaves of three, let it be!' applies."If you see poison ivy you of course avoid it.But there is a chance you may contact it unknowingly."The oil it contains causes irritation, even if you're not touching the plant directly," Gallagher said.If you suspect you've come in any contact with poison ivy, wash your hands thoroughly with cold water.Bee StingsFor many, bees are simply an annoyance, but if you have a bee allergy, stings can be fatal.When you're outside, be sure to wear light-colored, clean clothing, avoid using cologne or perfume, avoid flowering plants and garbage cans, and do not swat at a bee.According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, if you are stung by a bee, cleanse the area with soap and water, and remove the stinger with your fingernail, not with tweezers.DrivingPennsylvania state and local police are taking part in a "Click It or Ticket" seat belt enforcement until June 8."Vehicle crashes are one of the leading causes of death, with most fatalities being attributed to unbelted motorists," said Frank Noonan, state police commissioner.According to the PA Teen Safe Driving Coalition, Memorial Day is the start of the 100 deadliest days for teen drivers. Remember to buckle up on the way to any picnics, campgrounds or pools this weekend.Water SafetyThere is nothing like a refreshing swim on a hot day, but according to the CDC, about 10 drowning fatalities occur daily.This is more likely to occur when a swimmer lacks ability and water access is not surrounded by a barrier.People should only swim in areas where there is supervision. If you are on a boat, wear a life jacket. And don't use alcohol, which can impair your judgement.Whether you're at a lake, ocean or pool, awareness is key.