Whether you love to grill, camp, or kick back around a backyard fire pit during the summer months, it's important to always be mindful of fire safety–especially when you consider that outdoor grills alone account for approximately 9,600 home fires each year.
To help you and yours stay safe, I’ve pulled together a quick list of nine outdoor fire safety tips to take with you as you head outdoors:
1. First, confirm that you are allowed to have a fire in the area you would like to start one. If there is a burn/fire ban, do not start a fire. (If you start a fire in such an area, you may face serious legal repercussions.)
2. Keep flammable materials at least 10 feet away from open flames. This includes paper plates, napkins, and decorations.
3. Keep children at a safe distance from outdoor fire pits and grills, explain the dangers of fire to children, and never leave a child unattended around a fire pit or grill.
4. Only use outdoor fire pits and grills that are in good condition.
5. Ensure outdoor fire pits and grills have a spark arrestor to prevent embers from flying and starting a fire.
6. Always keep a bucket of water or a hose nearby to douse the fire if necessary.
7. Never leave an outdoor fire unattended.
8. Only burn dry, seasoned wood in your fire pit. Green or wet wood creates more smoke and can start unwanted fires.
9. Avoid using lighter fluid or gasoline.
We hope these tips will help you stay safe this summer while enjoying the outdoors.
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