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Dos and Don’ts for Your Fall Fires | SERVPRO of Hayward
9/19/2023 (Permalink)
Bonfire season is upon us! SERVPRO of Hayward has your back with these helpful fire safety tips.
Say it with us: We love fall in the Midwest! This time of year is great for many reasons, but we thoroughly enjoy the crisper air, football Sundays (go Packers) and the increased time spent outside enjoying the colors and changing seasons. We also love enjoying fall nights at our bonfire pits.
If you are like us and enjoy lighting a fire in the fall, be sure you are being responsible with your flames! Any dry conditions can increase your risk of starting an out-of-control blaze that can lead to a serious situation.
Our SERVPRO of Hayward team explains some easy steps to follow when it comes to your bonfires so you can enjoy the crackling flames and campfire stories in a controlled and worry-free way.
Do pick a safe spot for your fire pit. You may not be able to move your permanent pit if it is in the ground, but you can ensure any debris around it is picked up, your log or brush piles are far away and any overhanging trees are trimmed.
Do make sure a water source is close by and ready to use. A hose that is pulled out and set near the site or a bucket filled with water can both help knock down any wandering flames in an instant. If you don’t have water nearby, keep a shovel close to pile sand or dirt on any unwanted flames.
Do watch the weather and avoid lighting a fire during high winds or dry conditions. Burn burns can change by the day, so check with our local authorities before lighting any kind of outdoor fire.
Don’t use gas or lighter fluid to keep the flames going. Those substances are really flammable, but they are unpredictable in these environments. Stick with tinder, matches or lighters so you can control the size of your fire.
Don’t let your kids or pets play unattended near the fire. Severe burns or dangerous accidents can happen in the blink of an eye.
Don’t overfeed your fire and let it get too large. It can be fun to add leaves, wood and yard debris onto your fire, but keep it small. Large fires are harder to control and can easily spread beyond your pit.
Don’t go inside for the night until your fire is completely extinguished. Pour water over the logs and embers until everything is cold to the touch.
Wildfires can be caused by multiple different natural processes, but unfortunately, most wildfires are caused by human negligence or accidents. Be responsible with your fires by keeping them small and only burn on days when the conditions are favorable.
We understand how quickly fires can damage homes and buildings. Call us right away for a complete restoration.
Fire can cause a lot of damage in a short amount of time. Contact us day or night for immediate assistance.