One of the summer’s biggest joys is spending time with the people you love around a fire pit. Good company, tasty treats, and the sound of a crackling fire are the makings of a perfect evening. But before you get too comfortable and relaxed, it is important to brush up on your fire safety skills. You and any attendees need to know several things, including which precautions you should all be taking.
Continue reading to reacquaint yourself with a few fire safety rules to protect you and your loved ones this season.
Before You Start Your Fire
Check Local Weather Reports
Before you schedule your get together, make sure the weather conditions are favorable. Ideal fire pit weather includes little to no wind, good air quality, and, obviously, no rain!
Extinguish Ready
Fires are mesmerizing and exciting. They can also be unpredictable and destructive! Avoid flames getting out of hand by keeping a bucket of water, some dirt or sand, a shovel, and a fire blanket nearby. Instantly smother flames with any of these items in the event of an emergency.
Review Rules With Children
While every attendee needs a refresher, it is important to teach children fire safety practices and rules — especially what do to if their clothes or hair catch on fire. Knowing how to “stop, drop, and roll” could potentially prevent a devastating tragedy.
Avoid Fuel Accelerants
Fuels like kerosene or gasoline can make a fire get out of control quickly. Instead, use dry kindling to start your fire.
During Your Fire
Use the Right Kind of Wood
Avoid using construction materials such as plywood or pressure-treated wood because they can release toxic chemicals into the air. Using hardwood that completely fits in your pit is best.
Keep a Safe Distance
Once your flames are roaring, make sure everyone keeps a reasonable distance from the fire pit. If you are roasting marshmallows or hotdogs over the fire, make sure to tie back hair, zip-up jackets, and remove any other items that could catch fire.
Always Monitor Fire
Never leave a fire unattended! If you need to run into your house for whatever reason, you should always leave a responsible adult in charge. Even the smallest flame can quickly spread in a matter of seconds. Always watch your fire and be ready to take action if necessary.
Use a Screen
If your fire pit has a screen, use it! Screens can protect your loved ones from flying sparks and embers that can ignite clothing or dry grass or weeds.
After the Party’s Over
Leave Only When it’s Cool
Many people think it’s safe to leave once the flames are out. This is not true! It is only safe to leave when the ashes, embers, and logs are cool to the touch.
Contact Rapid Response Restoration
Applying these simple safety practices can make a big difference in your safety this summer. Unfortunately, accidents happen, and fires, even small fires in backyard fire pits, can lead to major disasters. When disaster strikes and your home is damaged, call the professionals at Rapid Response Restoration. Our certified technicians are specialized in fire and smoke, water and flood, and mold remediation and will work tirelessly to restore your home to its pre-disaster condition. The experts at Rapid Response Restoration are available to assist you 24/7.
