Summer is here and many of us are getting our grills prepped and our fire pits cleaned out for the season. This is the time of year to get back in touch with nature, enjoy Fourth of July fireworks, roast marshmallows around the campfire, and grill up some tasty burgers for the family.
While this side of the summer sounds perfect and relaxing, it also produces several fire hazards. All of us here at EPS Security want you to have a safe and satisfying summer so we came up with a few tips for you to enjoy the heat without the flames:
Firework hazards
- Do not light fireworks near trees, dry leaves, or into metal or glass containers
- It is best to set off fireworks on a flat surface, and a safe distance from your house
- Do not re-light fireworks that are duds. Instead let these fireworks sit for 15 minutes, then soak them in water and properly dispose of into a metal container
- Immediately soak sparklers in water after they’ve been used as the metal remains hot for several minutes even after they’ve been lit
- Never hold fireworks in your hands as you light them off, and only light one off at a time
Grilling safety
- Clean your grill regularly. Grease buildup can lead to grease fires
- Keep your grill at a safe distance from your home and your deck in an open area with air flow
- Use long handled grilling utensils to keep yourself at a distance from the heat and flames, and make sure to keep small children away from the hot grill
- Inspect gas grills and propane tanks regularly. Lose hoses can result in leakage and cause fires
Campfire Precautions
- Keep fires at a manageable size. 3 feet by 3 feet is the recommended size
- Make sure the fire is surrounded by rocks and sand, and keep away from low hanging branches and dry leaves
- Be conscious of weather conditions. High winds create dangerous conditions for fires
- Keep bonfires and campfires at a safe distance, downwind, from your home or your tent
- Extinguish your fire with water and let sit overnight to fully cool before cleaning your fire pit
Safety First
While all of these tips may seem like a no-brainer it is better to be safe than sorry in fire situations. Summer can be one of the most hazardous times of year for fire accidents, but that doesn’t mean the rest of the year is off limits to accidents. Here are a few more ways you can be preventative and prepared when dealing with fire year round:
- Check your carbon monoxide and smoke detectors ensure they are working properly and are not in need of new batteries
- Speak to your children about fire safety
- Come up with an evacuation plan for your family
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