by KYW’s medical editor Dr. Brian McDonough

Food allergies are a serious problem that requires serious attention. If you have a family member with an allergy problem like peanut or shellfish, even a simple summer barbecue can be an issue.

Here’s something you might not have thought of.

If you are having a barbecue in the park, use a plastic tablecloth – in addition to dressing up your barbecue or picnic, a tablecloth prevents guests from coming in contact with any allergy-causing food particles left on the table from previous meals. Another simple step that can be helpful is providing a serving utensil for each food item – separate utensils help reduce cross contamination between dishes. And be sure you have enough plates, cups, napkins and utensils so no one will have to share.

Make sure someone has a cell phone in the event that there is a serious reaction.