As Memorial Day Weekend is getting closer it’s important to look at some food safety tips to get through the weekend. 

Dallas County Health Department Public Information Officer Ann Cochran says bacteria and viruses are the most common cause of food poisoning. Cochran says to prevent illness there are some food safety rules people can follow.

“Always follow the food safety rules of clean, separate, cook and chill. Those buffet foods cannot just sit out all afternoon and grilling can be particularly tricky. Never put cooked meat back on the same plate that held the raw meat. Point out to your guests the sink and the hand soap and have paper towels ready nearby.”

Cochran tells Raccoon Valley Radio an alternative to the hand soap would be having a bottle of hand sanitizer available as people are preparing to get their food. Cochran offers up another tip for guests.

“As a guest, don’t hesitate to wash up before you get your food in a buffet line.”

For more information you can go here.