Fires and summer safety

7/27/2016 (Permalink)

Summers are a great time to tell stories and gather around a campfire or have cook out but these actvities all involve fire.Staying safe is important

Fires and summer safety

Did you know that summer is one of the most dangerous times for fires. With all of the recent fires in the area we thought we would use this time to educate you on how you can stay safe this summer while still having a great time. For those of you who do not know we are on the border of a severe drought in MA.

A number of towns have already imposed mandatory water restrictions with many asking the public to adhere to voluntary ones. We have provided you with a link to check and see what your town is asking of you.

http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/massdep/water/watersheds/municipal-water-use-restrictions.html

Typically water restrictions limit the use of water outside the home, meaning no lawn and flower watering, car washing, power washing sidewalks or siding on homes just to name a few. That being said these restrictions are to ensure everyone has water for drinking and bathing please adhere to them and do you part. 

But water restrictions also mean there is a lack of rain fall. This lack of water has severe implications and does increase the fire risk. It is important to know ways you can help not only conserve water but reduce the risk of fire. With everything being so dry it does not take much for fire to get out of control. Please see the tips below to keep your summer fun and safe for everyone.

Camping is fun

Smores over a campfire is a great childhood memory but fire safety is very important especially during a drought. Below you will find some key points to keep you safe. If you'll be spending the summer camping or just toasting marshmallows in the back yard, it's a good idea to educate yourself about campfire safety. Keep the following tips in mind.

Rules Rules RulesFollow Area Rules

Campsites always have posted rules based on the area, season and local conditions. Be aware of what they are and know there is a reason they exist. Some times these rules will have fire bans or strict burning regulations so always check the regulations before you start the fire.

You can catch fire too

Embers from fires can land on clothing,  causing them to catch on fire. Knowing the old adage stop drop and roll is important. Role playing is an important way to make sure everyone in the family knows how to put this sort of fire out. Practice will prevent panic.

Where to set up the fire

The spot you choose to set up your fire is vital for your safety. Making sure there is no loose brush such as leaves, grass, or underbrush and if there is clear it away first. It is also advisable to steer clear of overhanging branches. It is best to dig a pit to set up the fire in and surround it with rocks. These rocks create a barrier for debris as well as shields the fire from wind helping contain embers.  .

Flammable materials

Guess what fluids like gas, lighter fluid and charcoal is flammable. Keep these items  a safe distance away from the open flames and fire pit itself as stray flames can ignite them. Please Please Please keep your tent away from the fire. Being zippered into something on fire is never a good thing. It is advisable to buy a tent with a flame retardant material.

Bonfires Keep It Under Control

Large bonfires are great and the roar of the flames the good times as we gather around them but can easily become uncontrollable. Make sure you are able to manage the size of the fire and have all the safety equipment to douse any flames. Smaller fires are much more manageable and can be just as fun knowing everyone is safe.

Do not leave fire unattended.

Rule of thumb never ever leave a fire unattended last to bed extinguishes the fire. Dousing the flames and embers with water is not enough you must stir them and douse them again. This should be done several times until you are sure that it is safe and no lose embers will blow away.  Keeping plenty of water or a fire extinguisher is always a good idea anytime you will near a fire. A shovel is just as important allowing you to extinguish areas that may get out of the main fire area.

Fire Safety Tips for Summer Travel

Source

Summer is a great time to take a road trip or go camping, but it's smart to stay away of fire safety on your trip. Keep these tips in mind.

Where to stay

Vacation is here, fire safety is very important and should be on your mind. Ensure where ever you stay  has the proper fire safety equipment, smoke detectors, and sprinkler systems. It is a good idea to know where the emergency exits are and review the posted escape plan. They should also have a safety check list provided to you it is a good idea to review this as well. If these are missing choosing another location is best for you and your family.Many of us while on vacation will visit new sites and locations . It is vital to know know where all exits are located. Taking a few moments can make the world of difference. Should a fire or other emergency situation break out knowing how to evacuate is vital.

Do your part NEVER Throw Lit Cigarettes out of the Car

Never throw a lit cigarette, match, or cigar out of a car window or onto the ground. It could ignite dry vegetation or even in rare circumstances, ignite fumes from your vehicle.

Fireworks Safety

Its that times of the year the bright colors and the gathering to look up at the sky at night through the roar of the fireworks. This is a very real safety concern in the summer especially during a state of drought. Please make sure you are careful to familiarize yourself with fireworks safety tips provided by the United States Fire Safety Administration

Grill safety tips.

Outdoor grilling is great we love it just as much as everyone else but you must stay safe no matter what sort of grilling you plan on doing. See our earlier blog posts on our website about grilling safety tips. So that you can have a safe delicious time. 

Your home and wildfires

Many parts of the US and Canada ( yes that massive fire is still burning)  have fallen victim to a wild fire this summer. Natural disasters do not always involve tornados or water. Our friends at  Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)  have to ways to keep you safe and updated with emergencies. Fires move quickly and time is of the essence if you have to evacuate. Preparedness is our mantra and these situations are no difference..

Making a plan

Map out an escape route from the home and a central meeting point along with a route you will take in your car along with a central meeting point should members of your home be away at the time of the evacuation.  Make sure you have each access to the plan.

Emergency kit

Evacuation means you have to have at least 3 days worth of food and water. Ensure that the food is easy to open but will also last without refrigeration.  Compile a supply of medicines and medical supplies such as band aids, ointments, and bandages. Store this in a convenient place that is easily accessible.

Created a buffer zone

Remove all yard loose debris such as leaves, sticks, twigs, vines, branches, any firewood, or other flammable materials. Keeping the grass short will ensure that the fuel for flames will be kept at a minimum. Move any oils, gas or  combustible liquids as far away as you can get them. Extend this zone as far as you can  FEMA recommends 30-100 ft

Mark you home clearly

Make sure your house number is visible from the street so if emergency services need to find the home it is easy for them to do so.

Enjoy the Summer

By knowing and practicing summer fire safety tips, you can enjoy many wonderful times in the great outdoors filled with laughter, happiness and safety.