Summer means more opportunities for fun and quality time with loved ones- which probably include hosting barbeques and campfires. While nothing should stop you from camping and having summer gatherings, you should take necessary precautionary measures when dealing with fire. Whether you’re using a portable grill or fireworks, you must plan ahead to prevent the risk of fire damage.
Our fire damage restoration experts shared a few helpful tips to stay safe when enjoying the long and hot summer days:
Grilling Safety
What’s better than enjoying summer evenings with a plate full of delicious food? Grilling is a popular cooking method in the summer for several reasons. Grills are typically set up outside, so you can enjoy cooking in the nice weather without heating up the house.
Grills also pose a potential risk for costly fire damage, making it essential to check for safety before use.
Gas Grills
Always check for leaks before using a gas grill. Mix equal parts water and soap to make a solution. Brush it on the gas line and tank before slowly turning it on. If you see bubbles forming at this point, that is a sign of gas leakage.
Charcoal Grills
Regarding charcoal grills, using starter fluid over a burning fire presents a high risk of fire damage. You should always avoid using charcoal grills under overhanging branches or too close to your home.
Firework Safety
Fireworks can cause a lot of damage, from physical injury to the person handling them to property damage. So, it is crucial to handle fireworks with caution to avoid hazards.
Before using fireworks make sure to read the pack label, especially the cautionary instructions. Avoid lighting multiple fireworks simultaneously to prevent injury and fire damage. Once you light the fireworks, back away quickly to avoid getting hit by any flying sparks.
It is never a good idea to light a ‘dud’ firework. Wait for twenty minutes before soaking the firework in water. During celebrations, you should also have a water hose or bucket filled with water close by when handling fireworks.
Campfire and Fire Pit Safety
Campfire is one of the biggest summertime highlights for many friend groups and families. While campfires are fun, they’re also a fire hazard. If you’re having one this summer, you must take safety measures to keep the flames under control.
Checking the weather condition is the first and most important step to take when using a fire pit or building a campfire. For example, lighting a fire in windy weather can blow sparks, burn nearby plants, and eventually start a fire. Never build a campfire in enclosed spaces or within twenty feet of infrastructure or outdoor plants.
Campfires, fireworks, and barbeques are a few of the top ways to enjoy the summery weather. But, these activities can cause fire damage before you know it. It is critical to take measures to prevent injury and damage.
If you get caught with fire damage, contact our experts at ServiceMaster by CME ASAP. We’re available 24/7 and ready to help!