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Tips for Controlling Your Fall Bonfires | SERVPRO of Alamo Heights
9/18/2023 (Permalink)
Bonfire season is upon us! SERVPRO of Alamo Heights has your back with these helpful fire safety tips.
The fall season is approaching quickly, and we aren’t mad about it! We love the changing seasons and the eventual cooldown that we will experience as a result. Plus, fall decorations and pumpkin spice are back in full force. It is also the time of year when many of us enjoy spending more time outdoors because the temperatures aren’t as intense.
That means more outdoor bonfires! Fall bonfires can be a cozy way to enjoy the season, but they can also create dangerous situations if the flames and embers are not respected.
Our SERVPRO® of Alamo Heights team explains more about maintaining your outdoor fires below, so read on so you can enjoy your s’mores and family time without the risk of starting an unwanted blaze.
Do find a safe location for your pit. Portable pits should be set up on level, nonflammable ground, and while many permanent pits can’t be easily moved, you can still ensure that brush piles and log piles are safely moved far away.
Do keep a source of water handy. Buckets full of water or a hose that is unraveled and kept close by are both great options to ensure you have a reliable and quick way to extinguish the flames. If you are in an area without easy access to water, have a shovel nearby so you can extinguish your flames with dirt or sand.
Do watch for any changing weather conditions and any new burn bans. Conditions can change by the day, and any especially windy days or dry conditions can increase your risk of starting a wildfire. Check with local authorities before even picking up your matches or lighters.
Don’t toss any accelerants on your dying fire. Only use lighters, matches and tinder to keep it going. Gas or lighter fluid are very flammable, but these accelerants are incredibly unpredictable and can start an out-of-control fire in seconds.
Don’t let kids or pets play too close to the fire, and never leave it unattended. A single accident can happen in seconds and can lead to serious injury.
Don’t let the flames get too high. Adding twigs, brush and leaves to your fire can be fun, but letting it get too big makes it harder to control. Keep it small so you can quickly knock down any wandering flames or sparks.
Don’t leave your fire pit to go to bed until it is completely extinguished. Pour your water buckets or use your hose over the flames and logs until everything is out and the logs are cold to the touch. Even one glowing ember can reignite and create a dangerous situation while you sleep.
Wildfires
Wildfires can start in many different ways, but most of them are actually started by humans. This is why it is so important to be responsible with any outdoor fire no matter what time of year it is. Keep the flames small, stay close by and ensure they are extinguished before going inside.
We are always here for you if your home or property is damaged in a fire. Contact us right away for a fast restoration.
Fire can cause a lot of damage in a short amount of time. Contact us day or night for immediate assistance.