Fire Safety In The Summer Months
Summer is a time for fun but it’s also a time for you and your family to be cautious when using fireworks, grills and other potentially dangerous materials. According to the National Interagency Fire Center, In 2018 there were 58,083 wildfires, compared to 71,499 in 2017. Let’s see if we can keep the number lower for 2019.
During the coming months you may plan to spend a lot of time outside enjoying the weather. Fires can happen easily, and they spread very quickly, so fire safety tips for the outdoors are essential!
Grilling is definitely a summer favorite but about 9.600 grilling injuries are reported each year. When using your grill make sure to take the necessary precautions and place the grill away from your home or wherever you are dwelling. Make sure it is away from the railing of any decks and move it out from overhangs. Remember that any propane or charcoal grills are only used outdoors and cleaning your grill regularly can help prevent grease and fat buildup. It’s not just for looks, the grease and fat residue can cause large fires. Also, when grilling, use a level surface at least 10 feet away from your house, garage, deck or any potential flammable material.
Fireworks are an enjoyable part of the summer months but lighting your own can be dangerous. It’s always safer to attend a firework show but if you do set the fireworks off on your own then make sure to be careful about it. It’s important to keep water ready in case something goes wrong, light fireworks away from your house or any flammable objects, never use a glass bottle to light fireworks and always follow the local laws in your community on fireworks.
Camping is the best during the warm summer months and a campfire goes hand in hand with a chilly summer night. Always make sure to use caution when building a campfire or bonfire because accidents can easily happen. Creating a wildfire defensible space is essential. Regardless of where you are having your fire, make sure to clear away brush and debris and store firewood away from your home. When having a campfire or bonfire make sure to keep lighter fluid, gasoline or any other flammable liquids away from the fire. Always watch your children and pets when enjoying a fire and make sure that no one is running near the fire. Even though it may be tempting to build a big campfire, it can be unsafe and dangerous to those around you, plus it’s harder to put out. When you are putting out a campfire, make sure that there are no embers leftover and always use water to drench the ashes.
Fires can be enjoyable, but they can also be dangerous and cause a lot of damage if not minded properly. Use common sense around a fire and keep water or a fire extinguisher on hand in case something does happen. Remember, you can always call 911 if your fire gets too big.